1. Good.
2. No, "S" is a waste of money.
3. A third party cooler is better. As your case is tower, you can use almost any cooler.
4. Memory can be DDR2-800.

Thanks...much appreciated

This is the HD3200 description on the Gigbyte website...

"HDMI is able to provide up to 5Gb/s video transmitting bandwidth and multi-channel high quality audio all through a single cable. Able to transmit superior, uncompressed digital video and audio, HDMI ensures the crispest rendering of digital content up to 1080p without the quality losses associated with analog interfaces and their digital-to-analog conversion. GA-MA78GM-S2H has obtained the latest HDMI 1.3* certification, able to support Full HD 1080p multi-media and HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) which allowing Blu-ray/ HD DVD and other protected contents playback.
* HDMI 1.3 certified in video spec only."

It does say multi-channel audio.

However it also says that HDMI 1.3 is certified in video spec only. What would that imply?

If I recall, to get 5.1 with that mobo it needs to be done over S/PDIF or Analog. Here is a link to a discussion I had with other members on a different forum (someone please correct me if I am wrong):

http://www.mediasmartserver.net/forums/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=2282&start=101

If I recall, to get 5.1 with that mobo it needs to be done over S/PDIF or Analog. Here is a link to a discussion I had with other members on a different forum (someone please correct me if I am wrong):

http://www.mediasmartserver.net/forums/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=2282&start=101

Interesting, I'll have to test when I get home. I haven't watched a movie over the htpc yet so this will be a good test.

One more question about the card. There is a 512MB and 1GB version. Does the additional memory provide any benefit? It's only a $10 difference so I would lean towards the 1GB.

Interesting, I'll have to test when I get home. I haven't watched a movie over the htpc yet so this will be a good test.

One more question about the card. There is a 512MB and 1GB version. Does the additional memory provide any benefit? It's only a $10 difference so I would lean towards the 1GB.

Yeah, it is tricky how Gigabyte words their statement, which at face value makes it appear as if you can get multi channel through HDMI...

If you are just using the card for HD content playback no need for the 1GB

I have finally narrowed down the specs for my HTPC choosing a quad core over an i-920 assuming that the former will be quieter and cooler (90mW vs 135mW). Is my assumption right?

I choose the recommended high-end Intel/Intel ATX specifications (with quad Q9550 instead of Q8400) along with windows 7 RC and Logic Harmony 880, LG BD drive and Hauppauge HVR.

The biggest confusion I have is in choosing a case. The recommended case is Zalman hd160 plus but when I searched it for reviews, there seems to be issues with it (although the thread is older). Has anyone used it lately w/ windows7?

avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=937782

My other option is Antec Fusion Remote Max which is $100 cheaper but not as good looking. Any issues with that? Any other suggestion for a good looking <$300 case.

Thanks.

I watched some recorded TV with the GF for the first time tonight. The controls are great and it looks great, but the sound is awful. It is so bad that the GF actually noticed and commented, and she does all she can to avoid feeding into my AV addiction. If she can hear the difference it is really bad.

Does anyone know how I can fix this?

Had been running hd 2600xt and Cat 8.n to RPTV via component dongle direct to tv, image was smooth.

Now, it's 'jerky' when watching ripped SD dvds.

So many new things to check out, but first thing I went for was to see if HA was enabled, and can't find the setting.

So, does GPU acceleration for upscaling SD dvds in VMC have a setting I can check?

Oh, another wrinkle, it's a hdmi to dvi cable from AVR to tv, as the RPTV, a Tosh 57h83, only has dvi in.

Is TMT the best blu-ray player and if so is it bundled with any bd internal drives? I have no interest in burning bd.
If you are going to buy a new player, go for TMT 3 Platinum. No, not bundled.

Had been running hd 2600xt and Cat 8.n to RPTV via component dongle direct to tv, image was smooth.

Now, it's 'jerky' when watching ripped SD dvds.

So many new things to check out, but first thing I went for was to see if HA was enabled, and can't find the setting.

So, does GPU acceleration for upscaling SD dvds in VMC have a setting I can check?

Oh, another wrinkle, it's a hdmi to dvi cable from AVR to tv, as the RPTV, a Tosh 57h83, only has dvi in.
So non-ripped DVDs (i.e. original discs) are fine? In what format did you rip DVD? A bunch of VOB or something else?

You'd better stay away from 3450 (crappy video post-processing [if it concerns you], stereo 16 bit/48 kHz only LPCM over HDMI). 4670 HDMI audio (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16305207#post16305207) supports multichannel LPCM, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 176.4, 192 kHz, 16/24/32 bit.

Awesome, thanks very much.

In sound settings under configure speakers I only have the option of stereo, not 5.1 or 7.1 like in this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1029603#Speakers) thread.

Why isn't this being displayed?

wow, great thread http://imagesshack.info/88l1029.jpg

So non-ripped DVDs (i.e. original discs) are fine? In what format did you rip DVD? A bunch of VOB or something else?

Just sampled some ripped movies with action/fast pans, and they're fine.

It just happens the 1st ripped content I watched last night, since the upgrade, was Dexter, Season1, disk 1, a tv show on dvd.

I think what I'm seeing is a bad encoder issue. In Dexter, any shot other than a static shot of characters talking/sitting still gives me a terrible picture, yet just watched the opening foot chase scene from Casino Royale, and revisited 2 or 3 other movies I watched prior to the vid card change, and they're fine.

I know I've read about this in the past, (bad encoding/displaying of tv on dvd disks), but have no idea what term I need to run a search on.

I also have to try to install Cat 9.4 again, it wouldn't install the 1st 2 times I tried from a d-load from the ATI site, so I went with 9.1 as it was on the cd that came with the 4670, and installed fine. Meanwhile, my son is playing WoW on the pc I built him with my old 2600xt and 9.4, and it looks great.

Go figure.

Oh, and standard rips with DVDFab maintaining the disks VOB structure.

Hello,

First, I will start by thanking renethx and the other individuals who have contributed to this thread, the information contained here is an invaluable resource. Thank you.

Ok, so I've taken on the project of assembling a HTPC. I recently bought a 151-fd and want to get more out of it:eek:. What I'd like to achieve here is to make the tv my new media center. As for the system, I've been recommended the core parts below, but need some feedback as to what video & sound card to consider, blu-ray drive with so many choices available and other peripherals that I might need. I also need direction in what case to settle on, I've reference a couple below, because I really like the "component look" of those cases, but they may or may not work for my purpose.

While I'm not looking to spend thousands here, I do want a system that will serve a few purposes. Primarily the playback of movies (Blu-ray & SD dvd) via disc or ripped files, I also plan on running the computer to my home theater system to utilize surround sound. I'd like the audio decoded in 5.1 at the very least. I will probably do some web browsing, downloading / streaming of movies/music and some ocassional gaming. I'd say the ratio will be 85%-HT / 10%-Internet/Streaming/Downloading / 5%-Gaming.

Below are the components thus far:

CPU:
Intel C2Q Q6600 2.4G 775 65N %
no link a/v

MB:
GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3R LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128359

MEM:
G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231166

CPU Cooler:
COOLER MASTER RR-CCH-L9U1-GP 92mm Hyper TX2
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835103031

Cases:
SilverStone Crown CW03
http://www.silverstonetek.com/products/p_contents.php?pno=cw03
or
Zalman 160HD Plus
http://www.zalman.co.kr/eng/product/product_read.asp?idx=281
or
Antec Fusion Remote Black
http://www.antec.com/Believe_it/product.php?id=NzE4

Thank you for taking the time to read my post. Good day.:)

Thanks to all, especially Rene,

I went with the atx midrange amd/amd with some upgrades. I have a 2 questions.

1. I need a cable to connect to the spdif connector on the motherboard. Does it come with the graphics card or do I need to buy one. The motherboard has a 6-pin spdif connector.

2. Since the onboard graphics and the 4670 support crossfire should I set it up or just leave it alone and run solely off the 4670?

I have not yet recieved the graphics card or case but have all the rest. I would like to make sure I ave everything needed when I begin assembly. If anything is missing please let me know. Below is what I decided on:

CPU: Phenom II x4 940

CPU Cooler: Xigmatek HDT-SD964

Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-MA790GP-UD4H AM2+ AMD 790GX chipset ATX
.
Memory: ocztech 4gb ddr2-1066 gold

Graphics Card: SAPPHIRE 100255DDR4 Radeon HD 4670 512MB

HDD: 2 seagate 1.5tb 3.5" sata 7200rpm

PSU: Enermax PRO82+ 525W EPR525AWT

Case: Antec Fusion Remote Max ATX, with LCD/IR receiver/remote

LG Black 6X BD-ROM 16X DVD-ROM 40X CD-ROM SATA Internal Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM & 16X DVD±R DVD Burner Model GGC-H20L

Dinovo mini

Thanks to all, especially Rene,

I went with the atx midrange amd/amd with some upgrades. I have a 2 questions.

1. I need a cable to connect to the spdif connector on the motherboard. Does it come with the graphics card or do I need to buy one. The motherboard has a 6-pin spdif connector.

2. Since the onboard graphics and the 4670 support crossfire should I set it up or just leave it alone and run solely off the 4670?

I have not yet recieved the graphics card or case but have all the rest. I would like to make sure I ave everything needed when I begin assembly. If anything is missing please let me know. Below is what I decided on:

CPU: Phenom II x4 940

CPU Cooler: Xigmatek HDT-SD964

Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-MA790GP-UD4H AM2+ AMD 790GX chipset ATX
.
Memory: ocztech 4gb ddr2-1066 gold

Graphics Card: SAPPHIRE 100255DDR4 Radeon HD 4670 512MB

HDD: 2 seagate 1.5tb 3.5" sata 7200rpm

PSU: Enermax PRO82+ 525W EPR525AWT

Case: Antec Fusion Remote Max ATX, with LCD/IR receiver/remote

LG Black 6X BD-ROM 16X DVD-ROM 40X CD-ROM SATA Internal Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM & 16X DVD±R DVD Burner Model GGC-H20L

Dinovo mini

Do you have an old fashioned keyboard/mouse, you will need during the initial setup? Y our build is very similar to mine. No wires came with the 4670.

Thanks to all, especially Rene,


2. Since the onboard graphics and the 4670 support crossfire should I set it up or just leave it alone and run solely off the 4670?



Dinovo mini

Do you intend to game?

If not, then a single 4670 will suffice.

And as previous poster stated, no cables with it.

Thanks Guys,
I have wired keyboard and mouse available and I have no intentions of using this for games.

The spdif cable part# listed in the manual for the GIGABYTE GA-MA790GP-UD4H AM2+ AMD 790GX chipset ATX is: 12cr1-1spino-1*r

Does anyone know if there is another more generic cable I can use? That part# is not available at newegg or microcenter. I can find iton google but would ather go and buy it if I can so I do not have to wait for it.

The spdif cable part# listed in the manual for the GIGABYTE GA-MA790GP-UD4H AM2+ AMD 790GX chipset ATX is: 12cr1-1spino-1*r

Does anyone know if there is another more generic cable I can use? That part# is not available at newegg or microcenter. I can find iton google but would ather go and buy it if I can so I do not have to wait for it.

what are you using the spdif cable for, multi channel?

I need to supply both audio and video thru the hdmi port to my Panasonic plasma

I need to supply both audio and video thru the hdmi port to my Panasonic plasma

So you are connecting the HDMI to your Panny (via the 4670) and looking to connect the SPDIF to your receiver?

No, all audio and video is being fed thru the Panny to the reciever. This in in the bedroom and I have a small reciever that does 5.1 but only has one digital in so I feed it all thru the panny. That's why i need to get both a/v thru the hdmi port on the 4670.

I know search is my friend but.......Can anyone recommend a website that streams 1080i/p content. I'm a software dinosaur, I just recently discovered hulu.com, it's a great site but no HD. With the exception of over-the-air stuff, where do you guys get your HD? I'm trying to maximize the use of my HTPC :)

Sharing is caring....

I know search is my friend but.......Can anyone recommend a website that streams 1080i/p content. I'm a software dinosaur, I just recently discovered hulu.com, it's a great site but no HD. With the exception of over-the-air stuff, where do you guys get your HD? I'm trying to maximize the use of my HTPC :)

Sharing is caring....

have you tried crackle.com - many of the feeds are in HD - you have to click the HD text in the window; cbs.com has some hd - I dont think these sites are 1080i though

crackle.com has been getting very good lately- they have been adding a lot of good movies and its all free

have you tried crackle.com - many of the feeds are in HD - you have to click the HD text in the window; cbs.com has some hd - I dont think these sites are 1080i though

crackle.com has been getting very good lately- they have been adding a lot of good movies and its all free

Thanks, I'm going to check this out. I'm still crossing my fingers for netlfix HD streaming.

Will installing a SPDIF plug on my mobo give me DD 5.1 simple and easy?

So say I install this (http://www.frontx.com/pro/p1062_030.html). Plug it into my receiver and set my receiver to accept video from HDMI and audio from SPDIF will windows then give me the option to select 5.1 output?

I've been working on this for 3 days and its driving me crazy!:eek:

^^^Cool site. Thanks again! 720p will do just fine.

but need some feedback as to what video & sound card to consider, blu-ray drive with so many choices available and other peripherals that I might need. I also need direction in what case to settle on, I've reference a couple below, because I really like the "component look" of those cases, but they may or may not work for my purpose.
Please tell us more about your audio equipments and audio requirement (7.1 LPCM over HDMI, DD/DTS over HDMI, DD/DTS over S/PDIF or 7.1 analog etc.).

No, all audio and video is being fed thru the Panny to the reciever. This in in the bedroom and I have a small reciever that does 5.1 but only has one digital in so I feed it all thru the panny. That's why i need to get both a/v thru the hdmi port on the 4670.
Then you don't need S/PDIF. HD 4670 HDMI carries both video and audio (DD/DTS) to the Panny.

How do I get DD/DTS output over HDMI? All I can get is stereo. So far this has been an epic failure.

Rene,

Does that mean the 4670 picks uo digital audio thru the pci slot? I thought i needed to connect a cable from the spdif connector on the motherboard to the graphics card.

Rene,

Does that mean the 4670 picks uo digital audio thru the pci slot? I thought i needed to connect a cable from the spdif connector on the motherboard to the graphics card.
Yes (through the PCI Epxress bus).

Rene,

Thanks for the help. A small donation has been sent thru paypal.

Rene,

Just out of curiosity, what components do you use for your personal setup?

Yes, HD 3xxx supports stereo LPCM, DD and DTS.

The question is how do I get DD while playing back recorded TV? I'm still only getting stereo.

help I was about to order this system recommended by renethx but cannot find the motherboard on newegg or anywhere else (it only has open box and i dont want that)- is there another motherboard that you can recommend on newegg that will meet the specs of this system - i am using the htpc for gaming, running my hauppauge HD PVR through it, so encoding h.264 alot - and also watching mkvs .

AMD/NVIDIA

System

* CPU: Phenom II X4 940 Black Edition HDZ940XCGIBOX 3.0GHz AM2+, $195.
* CPU Cooler: Cooler Master 風神鍛 (Geminii S) RR-CCH-PBJ1-GP, $28.
* Motherboard: MSI K9N2GM-FIH AM2+ GeForce 8200 mGPU microATX, $75.
* Memory: G.SKILL F2-8500CL5D-4GBPK DDR2-1066 2 x 2GB Kit, $58.
* Graphics Card: EVGA 512-P3-1150-TR GeForce GTS 250 512MB , $130.
* HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA 3.0Gbps, $70.
* PSU: Enermax PRO82+ 525W EPR525AWT, $101. A cheaper alternative is Corsair VX550W CMPSU-550VX 550W, $70.
* Case: Antec Fusion Remote Black microATX, with LCD/IR receiver/remote, $143.
* Total Cost: $800

Rene,

Thanks for the help. A small donation has been sent thru paypal.
Thanks!

Rene,

Just out of curiosity, what components do you use for your personal setup?
Close to the mATX mid-range Intel/NVIDIA, but with ATI graphics instead of NVIDIA.

The question is how do I get DD while playing back recorded TV? I'm still only getting stereo.
Which player are you using? VMC?

In general you'd better use onboad audio codec of the mb (better sound quality, easier to configure). The only advantage of HD 3xxx HDMI audio is the convenience of a single cable for both video and audio.

Which player are you using? VMC?

In general you'd better use onboad audio codec of the mb (better sound quality, easier to configure). The only advantage of HD 3xxx HDMI audio is the convenience of a single cable for both video and audio.

I'm using Widows Media Center in Win 7RC.

What do you mean by onboard audio codec? I can't use the analogue outs, my AVR doesn't have them. I can only use HDMI audio or SPDIF audio with HDMI video. I would prefer a one cable solution, but at this point, I'd rather spend $6 for a SPDIF header than $60 for HD 4670. But ultimately I just want DD 5.1 to be transmitted to my AVR in any form when I'm playing back recorded or live TV in media center.

BTW up until I hit this wall with audio, your guide has made this an extremely pleasurable experience. I've really had alot of fun shopping, assembling and tweaking this system. Thanks again for all your input.

help I was about to order this system recommended by renethx but cannot find the motherboard on newegg or anywhere else (it only has open box and i dont want that)- is there another motherboard that you can recommend on newegg that will meet the specs of this system - i am using the htpc for gaming, running my hauppauge HD PVR through it, so encoding h.264 alot - and also watching mkvs .

AMD/NVIDIA

System

* CPU: Phenom II X4 940 Black Edition HDZ940XCGIBOX 3.0GHz AM2+, $195.
* CPU Cooler: Cooler Master 風神鍛 (Geminii S) RR-CCH-PBJ1-GP, $28.
* Motherboard: MSI K9N2GM-FIH AM2+ GeForce 8200 mGPU microATX, $75.
* Memory: G.SKILL F2-8500CL5D-4GBPK DDR2-1066 2 x 2GB Kit, $58.
* Graphics Card: EVGA 512-P3-1150-TR GeForce GTS 250 512MB , $130.
* HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA 3.0Gbps, $70.
* PSU: Enermax PRO82+ 525W EPR525AWT, $101. A cheaper alternative is Corsair VX550W CMPSU-550VX 550W, $70.
* Case: Antec Fusion Remote Black microATX, with LCD/IR receiver/remote, $143.
* Total Cost: $800
How about this seller (http://www.digiconcepts.com/msi_motherboards_156.htm)? I am not sure if it is actually in stock.

Do you need 7.1 LPCM over HDMI?

thanks renethx -i'll be sure to donate

i do not feel comfortable buying from a website never heard of it - plus i really wanted to pace my order through newegg tonight and do overnight delivery to start building right away- i did not want to get a potential delay from another site

i am definitely not going to use 7.1 - i dont even have surround sound - but I would like sound to go out to my tv through the hdmi if that is possible (although I would not mind paying a little more for a motherboard that would allow me the option if I choose to go surround sound later)

i was looking at this motherboard GIGABYTE GA-MA78GPM-DS2H which looks like it got a decent reviews - but it notes here http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010200022+1410330297+1075707619&Configurator=&Subcategory=22&description=&Ntk=&SpeTabStoreType=&srchInDesc=

that "DDR2 1066 is supported by AM2+ CPU for one DIMM per channel only"

is that something I should be concerned about?

whoops - i made a mistake it does not say the one DIMM per channel language it notes "Whether 1066 MHz memory speed is supported depends on the CPU being used"

I'm using Widows Media Center in Win 7RC.

What do you mean by onboard audio codec? I can't use the analogue outs, my AVR doesn't have them. I can only use HDMI audio or SPDIF audio with HDMI video. I would prefer a one cable solution, but at this point, I'd rather spend $6 for a SPDIF header than $60 for HD 4670. But ultimately I just want DD 5.1 to be transmitted to my AVR in any form when I'm playing back recorded or live TV in media center.

BTW up until I hit this wall with audio, your guide has made this an extremely pleasurable experience. I've really had alot of fun shopping, assembling and tweaking this system. Thanks again for all your input.
S/PDIF part of the onboard audio. If your mb does not have an optical or coaxial connector in the rear panel, build a coaxial bracket yourself (as explained on page 85).

thanks renethx -i'll be sure to donate

i do not feel comfortable buying from a website never heard of it - plus i really wanted to pace my order through newegg tonight and do overnight delivery to start building right away- i did not want to get a potential delay from another site

i am definitely not going to use 7.1 - i dont even have surround sound - but I would like sound to go out to my tv through the hdmi if that is possible (although I would not mind paying a little more for a motherboard that would allow me the option if I choose to go surround sound later)

i was looking at this motherboard GIGABYTE GA-MA78GPM-DS2H which looks like it got a decent reviews - but it notes here http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010200022+1410330297+1075707619&Configurator=&Subcategory=22&description=&Ntk=&SpeTabStoreType=&srchInDesc=

that "DDR2 1066 is supported by AM2+ CPU for one DIMM per channel only"

is that something I should be concerned about?
GTS 250 supports S/PDIF pass-through over HDMI (S/PDIF from the mb's internal S/PDIF connector), but there is a compatibility issue between GIGABYTE 780G mb's internal S/PDIF and GeForce cards. ASUS M3N78-EM (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131354) is a safer choice.

Or go with GIGABYTE GA-MA78GM-US2H + Radeon HD 4770 or 4850. The Radeon card has a built-in HDMI audio controller so that you don't have to connect to the internal S/PDIF connector of the mb.

S/PDIF part of the onboard audio. If your mb does not have an optical or coaxial connector in the rear panel, build a coaxial bracket yourself (as explained on page 85).

This S/PDIF header will output DD 5.1 from Live TV for sure?

man you are a genius renethx!! thanks

i sent you my donation

This S/PDIF header will output DD 5.1 from Live TV for sure?
Surely it passes DD/DTS from any DD/DTS track. But if your issue is specific to Live TV, then onboard S/PDIF may not work for Live TV either.

Does your HD 3xxx support DD/DTS over HDMI from other sources such as DVD?

OK, I've ordered this SPDIF header (http://www.frontx.com/pro/p1062_030.html) and this IR-USB receiver (http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.14380). Hopefully these will be the last 2 parts I need to buy before upgrading to bluray later this year:)

Surely it passes DD/DTS from any DD/DTS track. But if your issue is specific to Live TV, then onboard S/PDIF may not work for Live TV either.

What does that mean? I thought my problem was with windows. When I go to Control Panel->Hardware and Sound->Sound I have 4 playback options. Speakers, which are the 3.5mm analogue outs, Headphones, Digital Audio (S/PDIF) and Digital Audio (HDMI). It only gives me the option for stereo when clicking configure in HDMI S/PDIF has the configure button greyed out. But clicking on properties brings up a tabbed window. One of the tabs is for supported formats. This has check boxes that I can select. It offers DTS Audio, Dolby Digital, MS WMA Pro Audio and sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 192.

So my thinking is that once I install the header and make this my default audio device I should get DD out of everything played on the system, that has a DD track. Am I correct in thinking that?

And why aren't these formats offered in the supported formats tab of HDMI? There it just says:

Max number of channels:2
HDCP:Not supported
Bit Depth: 16 Bit
Sample Rates: 48.0kHZ
Encoded Formats: No compressed formats found.

I know this is a lot to read. Thanks again!

What does that mean? I thought my problem was with windows. When I go to Control Panel->Hardware and Sound->Sound I have 4 playback options. Speakers, which are the 3.5mm analogue outs, Headphones, Digital Audio (S/PDIF) and Digital Audio (HDMI). It only gives me the option for stereo when clicking configure in HDMI S/PDIF has the configure button greyed out. But clicking on properties brings up a tabbed window. One of the tabs is for supported formats. This has check boxes that I can select. It offers DTS Audio, Dolby Digital, MS WMA Pro Audio and sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 192.

So my thinking is that once I install the header and make this my default audio device I should get DD out of everything played on the system, that has a DD track. Am I correct in thinking that?

And why aren't these formats offered in the supported formats tab of HDMI? There it just says:

Max number of channels:2
HDCP:Not supported
Bit Depth: 16 Bit
Sample Rates: 48.0kHZ
Encoded Formats: No compressed formats found.

I know this is a lot to read. Thanks again!
You are right. Digital Audio (S/PDIF) is exactly S/PDIF part of the onboard audio codec, while Digital Audio (HDMI) is HD 3xxx HDMI. In either case you can select only 'stereo' speakers (that's normal). In 'Properties' tab, you will see details of supported audio formats:

- Digital Audio (S/PDIF): DTS, DD and stereo LPCM (44.1 kHz, 48.0 kHz, ...)
- Digital Audio (HDMI): DTS, DD and stereo LPCM (48.0 kHz only due to hardware limitation of HD 3xxx)

If you can't select DTS or DD in Digital Audio (HDMI) (i.e. they are greyed out), that's the cause of your issue. Have you installed a correct driver?

You are right. Digital Audio (S/PDIF) is exactly S/PDIF part of the onboard audio codec, while Digital Audio (HDMI) is HD 3xxx HDMI. In either case you can select only 'stereo' speakers (that's normal). In 'Properties' tab, you will see details of supported audio formats:

- Digital Audio (S/PDIF): DTS, DD and stereo LPCM (44.1 kHz, 48.0 kHz, ...)
- Digital Audio (HDMI): DTS, DD and stereo LPCM (48.0 kHz only due to hardware limitation of HD 3xxx)

If you can't select DTS or DD in Digital Audio (HDMI) (i.e. they are greyed out), that's the cause of your issue. Have you installed a correct driver?

It isn't that they are greyed out, its that they aren't even listed. There is nothing selectable in that tab, its just layed out as fact, not variable.

I've tried different drivers, but now I'm going to try them all again and specificly look at that tab and see if it changes at all. Thanks again for all the feed back.

Please tell us more about your audio equipments and audio requirement (7.1 LPCM over HDMI, DD/DTS over HDMI, DD/DTS over S/PDIF or 7.1 analog etc.).

Thank you Rene for getting back to me. I'm using a B&K avr-307 receiver to process my audio with the HT, however it doesn't support hdmi, therefore I would need to stream DD/DTS audio to the receiver via coaxial or optical from the computer's audio card. HDMI to carry video & audio signals to the tv directly is not a problem, but to use the receiver it can't be HDMI.

http://www.bkcomp.com/fileadmin/content/content_products/manuals/Past/Preamp%20or%20receiver/AVR%20307.pdf

I hope I've addressed your question.

Thanks again.:D

Thank you Rene for getting back to me. I'm using a B&K avr-307 receiver to process my audio with the HT, however it doesn't support hdmi, therefore I would need to stream DD/DTS audio to the receiver via coaxial or optical from the computer's audio card. HDMI to carry video & audio signals to the tv directly is not a problem, but to use the receiver it can't be HDMI.

http://www.bkcomp.com/fileadmin/content/content_products/manuals/Past/Preamp%20or%20receiver/AVR%20307.pdf

I hope I've addressed your question.

Thanks again.:D
- MB: GA-EP45-UD3P ($10 more for better expandability, unless you want more PCI slots)
- Graphics card: Sapphire Radeon HD 4670 GDDR4
- Sound: Use onboard S/PDIF. If the display supports DD/DTS pass-through from HDMI IN, then you can also use HD 4670 HDMI audio.

You can see a list of other peripherals on page 85.

Hi, I have a couple questions I am trying to figure out before I decide whether to build a HTPC or not. I tried searching and could not find the answer.

- Can I have a dual monitors hooked up (pc monitor and HDTV) and then stream movies/music to my tv while working on the htpc (with excel, email, surfing the web etc)
- Can I use an HTPC and also have it be my main PC

This would be for only myself and it would be located close the the tv so I can run cables and use a remote etc..

Thanks for the help!

I want to upgrade my home computer, and be able to send Home Movies and pictures, I-tunes, and Internet radio to my Denon 3808ci. I don't have the knowhow to build-one, I just want to order the right one from Dell. What are the critical items to add?

I have also been told a good way to do this is with a Media Extender. Some have recommended an X-Box ( Idon't play any games), I understand the new Moxi DVR can handle this, any other ideas? Thanks Bob Hanson

would anyone be interested in build pictures of a itx system?

Thanks Rene! I pulled the trigger and order the following system from newegg:

1 Antec Black Aluminum / Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case
1 GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H LGA 775 NVIDIA GeForce 9400 HDMI Micro ATX Intel Motherboard
1 CORSAIR CMPSU-450VX 450W ATX12V V2.2 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Compatible with Core i7 Power Supply
1 Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 Wolfdale 3.16GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor Model BX80570E8500
1 CORSAIR XMS2 DHX 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model TWIN2X4096-6400C4DHX 1 Western Digital Caviar Black WD1001FALS 1TB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Hard Drive
1 COOLER MASTER GeminII S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler

I will be installing windows 7 RC, is there anything else I am missing or need for my HTPC?

Dual display is possible with digital+analog. You don't need 620W PSU. 450W is enough.

Thanks Rene! I pulled the trigger and order the following system from newegg:

1 Antec Black Aluminum / Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case
1 GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H LGA 775 NVIDIA GeForce 9400 HDMI Micro ATX Intel Motherboard
1 CORSAIR CMPSU-450VX 450W ATX12V V2.2 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Compatible with Core i7 Power Supply
1 Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 Wolfdale 3.16GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor Model BX80570E8500
1 CORSAIR XMS2 DHX 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model TWIN2X4096-6400C4DHX 1 Western Digital Caviar Black WD1001FALS 1TB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Hard Drive
1 COOLER MASTER GeminII S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler

I will be installing windows 7 RC, is there anything else I am missing or need for my HTPC?

Optical drive?

I finally got all my parts together for my HTPC install and went to install Vista 64. I got all the way through the install and got the BSOD.

STOP: 0x00000101 (0x00000000000000000031, 0x00000000000000000000, 0xFFFFFA6001763180, 0x000000000000000002)

Im not sure what all of these codes mean. Ive done searches and found some people were having issues with Vista 64 and 4GB of Ram.

I tried removing one stick and Im still getting BSOD. This happens usually when I am logging into Windows. Ive gotten in a couple of times. Also, on one of the times I got in, I saw that my 1.5TB drive wasnt showing up. Im not using RAID. Just a 80GB for the OS and a 1.5TB for storage. The 1.5TB was there when I was selecting a drive for install. BIOS recognizes it as well.

Can anyone help me out? Im really stuck.

My system is:

Gigabyte MA790GP-UD4H
4GB Corsair Dominator DDR2 1066
Sapphire HD4670
AMD Phenom 9600
Bluray (SATA)
80 GB Seagate (SATA)
1.5tb Seagate (SATA)
Seasonic 600W psu

- Can I have a dual monitors hooked up (pc monitor and HDTV) and then stream movies/music to my tv while working on the htpc (with excel, email, surfing the web etc)
- Can I use an HTPC and also have it be my main PC
Yes.
Yes.

I want to upgrade my home computer, and be able to send Home Movies and pictures, I-tunes, and Internet radio to my Denon 3808ci. I don't have the knowhow to build-one, I just want to order the right one from Dell. What are the critical items to add?
The critical component is the graphics card. Radeon HD 4xxx, in particular HD 4670.

I finally got all my parts together for my HTPC install and went to install Vista 64. I got all the way through the install and got the BSOD.

STOP: 0x00000101 (0x00000000000000000031, 0x00000000000000000000, 0xFFFFFA6001763180, 0x000000000000000002)

Im not sure what all of these codes mean. Ive done searches and found some people were having issues with Vista 64 and 4GB of Ram.

I tried removing one stick and Im still getting BSOD. This happens usually when I am logging into Windows. Ive gotten in a couple of times. Also, on one of the times I got in, I saw that my 1.5TB drive wasnt showing up. Im not using RAID. Just a 80GB for the OS and a 1.5TB for storage. The 1.5TB was there when I was selecting a drive for install. BIOS recognizes it as well.

Can anyone help me out? Im really stuck.
Did you run memtest86?

Did you run memtest86?


I ran the Memory Diagnostic Tool on the install disk. Didnt seem to have any problems. I checked it periodically and it said no errors found but I didnt watch it the whole time. Next thing I knew it was booting into Vista. I checked to see if my 2nd SATA drive was there and nope. So I let it sit to see if it would crash again and sure enough, after 5 minutes... BSOD.

How do I run memtest86?

How do I run memtest86?
Download a bootable image of memtest86(+) and create a disc. If you restart the system, then memtest86 runs automatically (if the optical drive is your first boot device).

Download a bootable image of memtest86(+) and create a disc. If you restart the system, then memtest86 runs automatically (if the optical drive is your first boot device).

What should I be looking for? I already noticed it says: Settings Ram: 400 MHz (DDR800)

Shouldnt it be recognized as 1066?

BTW, I sent a donation. Considering all the help youve given me I wish it could be more. :-/

What should I be looking for? I already noticed it says: Settings Ram: 400 MHz (DDR800)

Shouldnt it be recognized as 1066?

BTW, I sent a donation. Considering all the help youve given me I wish it could be more. :-/
Install both memory modules. Set Memory Clock to Auto or X5.33 in BIOS. Then run memtest86. Usually a single pass consisting of eight individual tests is enough to detect errors (it takes 1 hour or more).

Thanks!

I ran the Memory Diagnostic Tool on the install disk. Didnt seem to have any problems. I checked it periodically and it said no errors found but I didnt watch it the whole time. Next thing I knew it was booting into Vista. I checked to see if my 2nd SATA drive was there and nope. So I let it sit to see if it would crash again and sure enough, after 5 minutes... BSOD.

How do I run memtest86?

Suggestion #1. Turn off the power. Then unplug power supply. Open case. Ground yourself by touching metal on the case. Re-seat everything. Ram. Video card. IDE/Sata/Front panel Connectors. Both ends of hard/floppy/optical drive cables. Inspect the MB screws and Check that no MB parts are touching the case. The case screws should touch a small ground plane around the screw holes on the mother board, if anything, but not touch anything else, like chips or elsewise. Make sure that everything is very copacetic. Double/triple check everything. Nothing hanging loose, like power cables. Ram should be well seated. Restart system. ---------> Sorry, I thought I would just pipe in a response here. YMMV. Good luck to you. :D WP

Hmmm.... ran memtest86. No errors. Reboot. BSOD again but this time a new error (A clock interrupt was not received on a secondary processor within the allocated time interval). What now? I hate to take this thing into a repair shop.

I shall not be defeated. LOL

Have you tried just booting with your OS Drive connected? I'd double check settings in your BIOS. Does your BIOS need to be updated to support your CPU, I had that problem once.
Before your 1.5 drive is recognized after boot, you have to go into Disk Manager and initialize and format it.

Make sure you check all shunts(jumpers) on the the MB and Hard Drives, like slave/master settings. Make sure all hard drives, etcetera have the correct power connectors hooked up to them and that the mother board has all power connectors hooked up to it, like the little 4 pin connector. Make sure that the processor is seated well and is the correct kind of cpu for the mother board. If you can get into the bios, make sure that all setting are correct there. ------->Just my .02. bro. good luck

Hmmm.... ran memtest86. No errors. Reboot. BSOD again but this time a new error (A clock interrupt was not received on a secondary processor within the allocated time interval). What now? I hate to take this thing into a repair shop.

I shall not be defeated. LOL
Try to install OS in the minimum configuration:

- CPU
- One stick of memory
- MB with onboard video
- Optical drive
- One HDD for OS
- PSU

If succeeded, add components one by one.

Try to install OS in the minimum configuration:

- CPU
- One stick of memory
- MB with onboard video
- Optical drive
- One HDD for OS
- PSU

If succeeded, add components one by one.

Okay. Did all that. Still BSOD. Since memtest86 said my memory is good, it has to be the MB or CPU, right? What else could it be? Ill try flashing the BIOS

Okay. Did all that. Still BSOD. Since memtest86 said my memory is good, it has to be the MB or CPU, right? What else could it be? Ill try flashing the BIOS
Updating BIOS is a good idea. Others are:

Make sure 'Patch AMD TLB Erratum' in BIOS is enabled
Try another processor (if you have any)
Try another OS (e.g. Windows 7 RC)
Try another optical drive
Try another mb ...

Hi –
I’m new to AVS and the world of HTPCs. I successfully built my current desktop about 2 years ago, and decided to try my hand here. My primary interests are in media storage (DVD, HD DVD, BD, CD) and playback, view photo album, some gaming (WoW and Civ), and TV (HD antenna). From this wonderful site and guide, I’ve come to this setup (not yet purchased):

Case - Silverstone’s SST-LC17-B
Motherboard - ASUS M3N72-D
CPU - Phenom II X3 710 - HDX710WFGIBOX
CPU Cooler - XIGMATEK HDT-SD964 92mm
Storage - Western Digital Caviar Black WD1001FALS 1TB
Memory - A-DATA 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 800 SDRAM
Graphics - ASUS EN9500GT TOP/DI/512M GeForce 9500 GT
Optic Drive - LG GGC-H20L - SATA Internal Blu-ray/HD DVD
PSU - ENERMAX MODU82+ EMD625AWT

Questions –
1. First do you see any issues with the above setup?
2. Is the HDHomeRun tuner to much for me? Its rather expensive and I don’t have cable. Suggestions?
3. A little concerned with my audio. I plan on using my Sony HT-CT100. Will that work with this setup? Do I need a sound card? I am not an audiophile by any means...
4. HDTV vs. HD Monitor: I’m really not sure which to go for here. :confused: Is there a clear winner? Or is it more about what it’s used for? I’m looking for something between 30 and 40 inches.
5. The case seems to come with 2 80mm exhaust fans, I assume I will need more fans. Suggestions? Sorry, I am very ‘cooling’ ignorant. :o
6. I have 250+ SD DVDs, 20-30 BD/HD DVDs, and 5000+ songs between iTunes and CDs. My HD collection is growing slowly, but that is the direction I am going. I assume the 1TB will not be enough for my needs. Will it be easier to purchase a second 1TB now, and install at the same time? Or will it be just as easy later?
7. Is there any benefit for me to make this a 64 bit system?

Sorry for all of the questions, but I really am a NOOB! Any help with this would be highly appreciated. And if you see anything I have forgotten, please shout it out.

Thank you!

Hi, just checking to see if anyone had any additional information for me. If this isn't the correct forum for some, or all, of my questions, please let me know. My biggest concerns are with questions 3, 4, 5, and 7. I'm itching to start purchasing, but I'm worried about making the wrong buy.

Any help would be highly appreciated.
Thank you in advance!

1. First do you see any issues with the above setup?
2. Is the HDHomeRun tuner to much for me? Its rather expensive and I don’t have cable. Suggestions?
3. A little concerned with my audio. I plan on using my Sony HT-CT100. Will that work with this setup? Do I need a sound card? I am not an audiophile by any means...
4. HDTV vs. HD Monitor: I’m really not sure which to go for here. :confused: Is there a clear winner? Or is it more about what it’s used for? I’m looking for something between 30 and 40 inches.
5. The case seems to come with 2 80mm exhaust fans, I assume I will need more fans. Suggestions? Sorry, I am very ‘cooling’ ignorant. :o
6. I have 250+ SD DVDs, 20-30 BD/HD DVDs, and 5000+ songs between iTunes and CDs. My HD collection is growing slowly, but that is the direction I am going. I assume the 1TB will not be enough for my needs. Will it be easier to purchase a second 1TB now, and install at the same time? Or will it be just as easy later?
7. Is there any benefit for me to make this a 64 bit system?
1. Good. 525W PSU is enough. (The max power consumption will never go beyond 250W.)
2. HDHomeRun is a good choice. Another choice is Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250 (dual hybrid)
3. Yes, works (either S/PDIF pass-through over HDMI, or two HDMI cables for video/multichannel LPCM audio as I explained in the remark).
4. Is 'HD Monitor' a PC monitor? Where do you place your system?
5. You can add two fans in the front (check Scythe Kama Flex). But two rear fans are enough, IMO.
6. You can add storage drives later (unless you go with RAID).
7. Almost none.

Updating BIOS is a good idea. Others are:

Make sure 'Patch AMD TLB Erratum' in BIOS is enabled
Try another processor (if you have any)
Try another OS (e.g. Windows 7 RC)
Try another optical drive
Try another mb ...

Im going to take it in to a professional and let them deal with this headache. Thanks for all your help and to the others that gave their advice. You guys rock! Maybe one day soon Ill actually have a functional system. :-)

[QUOTE=renethx;16428737]
4. Is 'HD Monitor' a PC monitor? Where do you place your system?
QUOTE]


Wow, awesome fast response! :) I totally appreciate it.

In the living room of a small apartment (600 sq. ft). I would sit roughly 6 to 8 feet from the system, which is why I'm leaning towards the HDTV. But I don't know enough about HDTVs to know if they can perform the same, or at least comparable to a monitor for the standard pc and gaming functions.

I know the 9400 series boards are highly recommended, but are there cheaper alternatives? Here is what I'll be using it for:

1. I will be using XBMC so hardware acceleration is not needed. As long as it can handle OpenGL2.
2. 1080p movies in MKV containers
3. Audio will be mainly DTS and AC3 and only 5.1 channels.
4. I will be using an E8400 cpu.

Will a 7100 series suffice? The boards are half the price.

Updating BIOS is a good idea. Others are:

Make sure 'Patch AMD TLB Erratum' in BIOS is enabled
Try another processor (if you have any)
Try another OS (e.g. Windows 7 RC)
Try another optical drive
Try another mb ...

My last 2 PCs that would keep crashing had bad PSUs, that's where I would start.

Nevermind - I see he's bringing it to the professionals, (whoever that is).

My last 2 PCs that would keep crashing had bad PSUs, that's where I would start.

Nevermind - I see he's bringing it to the professionals, (whoever that is).

Sorry. I meant that Im not a professional and dont have parts to swap in and out for troubleshooting. But... I found some interesting information that seems to relate. Might be useful for anyone planning on an AMD system.

http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/248265-28-phenom-exposed-shipping-flaky-cores

Even though its been over 30 days I'll see if NewEgg will refund my money. If not I guess Im just out $100 or so. That or I have a TripleCore processor if I can figure out how to underclock the faulty core (Ive never OC'd before). :-/

Once again, thanks for the help. Ill get this thing built and post some pictures.

In the living room of a small apartment (600 sq. ft). I would sit roughly 6 to 8 feet from the system, which is why I'm leaning towards the HDTV. But I don't know enough about HDTVs to know if they can perform the same, or at least comparable to a monitor for the standard pc and gaming functions.
In general HDTV is better for HTPC unless you have specific needs for 2560 x 1600.

I know the 9400 series boards are highly recommended, but are there cheaper alternatives? Here is what I'll be using it for:

1. I will be using XBMC so hardware acceleration is not needed. As long as it can handle OpenGL2.
2. 1080p movies in MKV containers
3. Audio will be mainly DTS and AC3 and only 5.1 channels.
4. I will be using an E8400 cpu.

Will a 7100 series suffice? The boards are half the price.
You'd better avoid 7100. Single channel memory is not good for HD playback. If you want to use a cheap mb, add a good discrete graphics card.

Hi renethx

Do you have a script to use with auto hotkey so I can switch between displays on my nvidia card.

Currently have VGA to monitor and DVI to TV. I'm using VMC and have setup profiles in the Nvidia control panel but have to go into the control panel every time to change displays. Surely there is another way to do this, like using hot keys the way ATI does it.

Thanks

Hi renethx

Do you have a script to use with auto hotkey so I can switch between displays on my nvidia card.
I remember I posted it somewhere in this forum. Please search with keyword 'Autohotkey' (and 'profile') and user name 'renethx'.

Good afternoon,

I am looking to set up a whole house A/v system. I would like to buy a Direct Storage Server and attach it to a new HTPC (to be built from this thread). I would like to stream content wirelessly to 3 other locations in the home with the popcorn hour 110 at the other 3. THe THeater I would like to run off the main HTPC and I would like all systems to be able to access the same movie storage server.


Can I feasibly even do what I am thinking about? DO I need two seperate servers, one for HTPC and one for the Popocorn's

Are there going to be any performance issues if multiple popcorns are trying to access movies from the server via the HTPC?

Are any of these PC's better then others for the DAS setup with the Popcorn Hour wireless gig?

Thanks for the help,

Joe

Good afternoon,

I am looking to set up a whole house A/v system. I would like to buy a Direct Storage Server and attach it to a new HTPC (to be built from this thread). I would like to stream content wirelessly to 3 other locations in the home with the popcorn hour 110 at the other 3. THe THeater I would like to run off the main HTPC and I would like all systems to be able to access the same movie storage server.


Can I feasibly even do what I am thinking about? DO I need two seperate servers, one for HTPC and one for the Popocorn's

Are there going to be any performance issues if multiple popcorns are trying to access movies from the server via the HTPC?

Are any of these PC's better then others for the DAS setup with the Popcorn Hour wireless gig?

Thanks for the help,

Joe

What type of content are you looking to stream wirelessly? Any HD content you will most likely have a lot of problems with unless you stream it wired. I have an HP MediaSmart Server with all my media stored on, which then serves up my media throughout my house (PCH, SageTV HD200, and 2 HTPCs).

You should have no problem accessing content from multiple PCHs, but that will also depend on your wireless connection and the type of content youare streaming.

I was doing fine with Amd64/2 5200 but changed to Kuma7750 for the 3.0 HT. It's more wattage and it's cooler is as loud as a jet. I looked at your cooler suggestions, but it's hard to determine how it would fit. I'm using a NZXT Duet with an MSI K9N2GM-FIH mb. Appreciate your time. Thanks

I was doing fine with Amd64/2 5200 but changed to Kuma7750 for the 3.0 HT. It's more wattage and it's cooler is as loud as a jet. I looked at your cooler suggestions, but it's hard to determine how it would fit. I'm using a NZXT Duet with an MSI K9N2GM-FIH mb. Appreciate your time. Thanks
Geminii S is one of the best coolers for HTPC (quiet and powerful). It fits K9N2GM-FIH, and perhaps NZXT Duet too.

Just an update on my sound issue. I now have DD 5.1 bitstream and I am a very happy camper.

It was a driver issue. The sound control panel is still only showing stereo and mono as output options, but my receiver is getting the DD bitstream. I've done some A/B comparisons with my cable DVR and it sounds the same to me. So I'm going with the philosophy, if it ain't broke don't fix it.

All I need now is to dial in the picture a little better and wait on my USB-IR adapter so that I can park my Belkin Media Pilot for most use and rely on my Harmony 890 for most functions.

A big thank you to everyone who has made this possible.

Okay, next problem. The picture is shaky on my old Mitsubishi Projection big screen. The strange thing is that it is perfect in Vista Media Center, but all other windows are shaky. My TV accepts component input at 1080i.
Is there a setting to fix this? I have to assume there is since VMC doesn't do it.
I know I really need to upgrade the TV, but I spent too much on the HTPC and Onkyo receiver, so the old TV will have to do for now.



Thanks, Will


CPU: AMD|PH II X4 810 AM3
CPU Cooler: ZALMAN|CNPS 9500 AM2
Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-MA790GP-UD4H AM2+
Memory: 2Gx2|OCZ OCZ2RPR10664GK R - Retail
Graphics Card: SAPPHIRE 100259-1GL HD4870 1G
HDD:
1 300G|WEST DIGITAL WD3000HLFS
3 WD10EACS

PSU ENERMAX|EMD625AWT 625W
ZALMAN Black Aluminum HD160Plus
CARD READ ROSEWILL|RCR-IC002
CASE FAN SCYTHE|SA0825FDB12l
CASE FAN SCYTHE|SA0925FDB12L
OS: Vista

Remote: Harmony One

Keyboard: DiNovo Edge

Hi!

I have a problem do decide which MB to buy!
I'm in between Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P and Gigabyte GA-EP45T-UD3P so I would like you're help please!

The first one (without "T") has support for DD2 but it has support for up to 16GB of RAM.
The second one (with "T") has support for DD3 but "only" to 8GB of RAM.

So what should be more important more RAM or faster RAM (DDR3).


Thanks!

Hi!

I have a problem do decide which MB to buy!
I'm in between Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3P and Gigabyte GA-EP45T-UD3P so I would like you're help please!

The first one (without "T") has support for DD2 but it has support for up to 16GB of RAM.
The second one (with "T") has support for DD3 but "only" to 8GB of RAM.

So what should be more important more RAM or faster RAM (DDR3).
Either board is OK. DDR3 memory is still pricey, however (2 x 2GB kit $30 vs $60).

Yes that is currently true! But in few months time the price will be the same or even in near future DDR2 will be more expensive. Then in time of minor upgrade (maybe more RAM or bigger disk) it will be harder to get DDR2 and also more expensive.

But the main question is still stands ... What is better to have better upgrade possibility (for more RAM - limited to 16GB RAM of DDR2) or higher speed of RAM but limited to 8 GB of DDR3!?

Yes that is currently true! But in few months time the price will be the same or even in near future DDR2 will be more expensive. Then in time of minor upgrade (maybe more RAM or bigger disk) it will be harder to get DDR2 and also more expensive.

But the main question is still stands ... What is better to have better upgrade possibility (for more RAM - limited to 16GB RAM of DDR2) or higher speed of RAM but limited to 8 GB of DDR3!?
For pure HTPC, if you buy 2 x 2GB kit (either DDR2 or DDR3) now, you will never have to upgrade memory.

What's the purpose of your system? If you know that DDR3 makes your favorite applications faster (say, 5% or more), perhaps DDR3 is worth. So DDR2 vs DDR3 is up to you.

Hi folks,

I'm a few weeks in with my Kuma7750 processor on a MA78GPM-UD2H board in an nMedia 1000b case. I swapped the 90 mm case fan (it was like a turboprop engine) for a nearly silent Scythe Kama fan.

CPU temps range from 41-49; I've never seen it outside this range. Most commonly 44-47. I'm using the stock fan/cooler for the CPU with Antec thermal grease to bond them. (I wound up reseating things a few times so lost the original pre-greasing on the cooler).

Is this OK or too hot? Worrying about this level of detail is new for me. If too hot I can get one of the recommended coolers from this thread but if it's OK I'd prefer to ignore the issue.

Marc

I will use it as various media player, Torrent, web browsing and also as storage with two 2 x 1TB disks in RAID 1 or maybe 3 in RAID 5 if I'll need more storage. Maybe some video conversion but not very often.

I had this kind of configuration in mind:
- GIGABYTE GA-EP45T-UD3P (or without "T")
- Intel Core 2 Duo E7400 (maybe E5400 because it might be enough)
- 2x 2048MB Kit OCZ Reaper HPC 1333MHz CL6
- 2x HDD WD 1 TB (32MB/7200/SATAII) Green, WD10EADS
- ATi RADEON HD 4670 512MB GDDR4 PCI-E SAPPHIRE

I'll use wireless keyboard with track ball and Sony KDL-40W4000!


Comments for this configuration are very welcome!

Hi folks,

I'm a few weeks in with my Kuma7750 processor on a MA78GPM-UD2H board in an nMedia 1000b case. I swapped the 90 mm case fan (it was like a turboprop engine) for a nearly silent Scythe Kama fan.

CPU temps range from 41-19 ; I've never seen it outside this range. Most commonly 44-47. I'm using the stock fan/cooler for the CPU with Antec thermal grease to bond them. (I wound up reseating things a few times so lost the original pre-greasing on the cooler).

Is this OK or too hot? Worrying about this level of detail is new for me. If too hot I can get one of the recommended coolers from this thread but if it's OK I'd prefer to ignore the issue.

Marc
7750 runs fine at up to Tcase Max 70.0°C.

I will use it as various media player, Torrent, web browsing and also as storage with two 2 x 1TB disks in RAID 1 or maybe 3 in RAID 5 if I'll need more storage. Maybe some video conversion but not very often.

I had this kind of configuration in mind:
- GIGABYTE GA-EP45T-UD3P (or without "T")
- Intel Core 2 Duo E7400 (maybe E5400 because it might be enough)
- 2x 2048MB Kit OCZ Reaper HPC 1333MHz CL6
- 2x HDD WD 1 TB (32MB/7200/SATAII) Green, WD10EADS
- ATi RADEON HD 4670 512MB GDDR4 PCI-E SAPPHIRE

I'll use wireless keyboard with track ball and Sony KDL-40W4000!


Comments for this configuration are very welcome!
You could save $36 by going with DDR2 without sacrificing performance (moreover GA-EP45-UD3P seems to be more reliable than the T version).

I don't recommend RAID, in particular if you use onboard RAID. If you need backup, use another method.

Folks,

I've been researching this stuff and am completely overwhelmed. I'm building a new house and want a centralized whole-home HTPC. I'd like to be able to watch DVDs, watch SD/HD TV (different channels on different TVs at the same time), and have DVR functionality.

I'm having 4 CAT6 runs to each TV location and am envisioning a single HTPC in the basement with Media Center Extenders behind each TV.

It sounds like I'll need an HTPC with two dual HD Tuner cards (wintv 2250s) to be able to watch different programming simultaneously, but in terms of the rest of the build (case, mobo, processor, video card) I'm lost. I don't need a pretty box, since it'll be in the basement, I just need something with room to grow.

Any help picking out the components would be greatly appreciated.

anyone know if there are any new chipsets coming out anytime soon?

I currently run a 780G with BE 5000. I like it but it´s a little jumpy sometimes if watching 1080P while something else is going on in the background. Like commercial detecting.
I guess my only really upgrade option is 8300 based mobo I guess.

Folks,

I've been researching this stuff and am completely overwhelmed. I'm building a new house and want a centralized whole-home HTPC. I'd like to be able to watch DVDs, watch SD/HD TV (different channels on different TVs at the same time), and have DVR functionality.

I'm having 4 CAT6 runs to each TV location and am envisioning a single HTPC in the basement with Media Center Extenders behind each TV.

It sounds like I'll need an HTPC with two dual HD Tuner cards (wintv 2250s) to be able to watch different programming simultaneously, but in terms of the rest of the build (case, mobo, processor, video card) I'm lost. I don't need a pretty box, since it'll be in the basement, I just need something with room to grow.

Any help picking out the components would be greatly appreciated.

I have the AMD/AMD build with 4670, WinTV 2250 and HDHomerun. However, my setup is different then yours as I use my HTPCs more as extenders (I have an HP MediaSmart Server running WHS that handles streaming all my content). I assume you want want the HTPC in the basement to handle media streaming/storage as well?

Good choice running Cat6, I just finished running several lines a few weeks ago, wish I had done it when my house was built 3 years ago. Also, any ideas what you had in mind to use as the media extenders?

anyone know if there are any new chipsets coming out anytime soon?

I currently run a 780G with BE 5000. I like it but it´s a little jumpy sometimes if watching 1080P while something else is going on in the background. Like commercial detecting.
I guess my only really upgrade option is 8300 based mobo I guess.
AMD 785G (http://www.fudzilla.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=13446&Itemid=1).

I have the AMD/AMD build with 4670, WinTV 2250 and HDHomerun. However, my setup is different then yours as I use my HTPCs more as extenders (I have an HP MediaSmart Server running WHS that handles streaming all my content). I assume you want want the HTPC in the basement to handle media streaming/storage as well?

Good choice running Cat6, I just finished running several lines a few weeks ago, wish I had done it when my house was built 3 years ago. Also, any ideas what you had in mind to use as the media extenders?

I've talked to a few people that have the setup that you have (multiple HTPCs as extenders), but I haven't found too many that are trying to use a single HTPC for SD/HDTV, DVR, DVD, and Mp3, which is why I'm struggling.

I'm planning on using Linksys DMA2100s, hard-wired as extenders. They're small and I'll velcro them to the backs of my TVs.

AMD 785G (http://www.fudzilla.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=13446&Itemid=1).

thanks for the fast reply!!

I may still try the 8300 route. I sometimes have the audio get out of sync when watching live HDTV. I read somewhere in another thread that Nvidia GPU keep a more stable clock than ATI GPU´s. I feel this may be behind it.

After reading through the guide, I decided to build a high-end microATX HTPC. I bought a dvi to hdmi adapter to go from my vga to TV, will this be plenty enough to get video and sound to my Sharp Aquos 42" LCD? I plan to use Windows 7 RC as the main OS, any pointers would be greatly appreciated.

Here are the specs, I changed a few things from the list. Let me know if it is alright. I was more concerned with the HTPC case than anything having enough room for the geminii S CPU cooler and graphics card.

1. Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case - Retail
2. ASUS M3N78-EM AM2+/AM2 NVIDIA GeForce 8300 HDMI Micro ATX AMD Motherboard
3. EVGA 512-P3-1150-TR GeForce GTS 250 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready
4. Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250 Dual TV Tuner
5. CORSAIR CMPSU-550VX 550W ATX12V V2.2
6. AMD Phenom II X4 920 2.8GHz 4 x 512KB L2 Cache 6MB L3 Cache Socket AM2+ 125W Quad-Core Processor
7. G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Dual Channel
8. Western Digital Caviar Black WD1001FALS 1TB 7200 RPM 32MB Cache
9. LG Black 6X BD-ROM 16X DVD-ROM 40X CD-ROM SATA Internal Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM & 16X DVD±R DVD Burner Model GGC-H20L
10. COOLER MASTER GeminII S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler

I've talked to a few people that have the setup that you have (multiple HTPCs as extenders), but I haven't found too many that are trying to use a single HTPC for SD/HDTV, DVR, DVD, and Mp3, which is why I'm struggling.

I'm planning on using Linksys DMA2100s, hard-wired as extenders. They're small and I'll velcro them to the backs of my TVs.

I will be curious to see what Rene recommends. Right now my desktop pc handles all my ripping/encoding, etc... and my MSS handles my media streaming/storing, but I would like to consolidate this into one device. I am looking at doing something similar to Rene's Workstation/Home Media Server setup. I will stick with WHS for data protection (using duplication), but the drawback with WHS is that it does not integrate with Windows Media Center (one of the reasons why I chose dedicated HTPCs as extenders instead of windows extenders like the linksys). An alternative to the Linksys would be the SageTV HD 200s or the Popcorn Hours (my preference being the HD200s). I am hoping that the next version of WHS (I think right now called Vail) will finally integrate with Windows Media Center.

After reading through the guide, I decided to build a high-end microATX HTPC. I bought a dvi to hdmi adapter to go from my vga to TV, will this be plenty enough to get video and sound to my Sharp Aquos 42" LCD? I plan to use Windows 7 RC as the main OS, any pointers would be greatly appreciated.

Here are the specs, I changed a few things from the list. Let me know if it is alright. I was more concerned with the HTPC case than anything having enough room for the geminii S CPU cooler and graphics card.

1. Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case - Retail
2. ASUS M3N78-EM AM2+/AM2 NVIDIA GeForce 8300 HDMI Micro ATX AMD Motherboard
3. EVGA 512-P3-1150-TR GeForce GTS 250 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready
4. Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250 Dual TV Tuner
5. CORSAIR CMPSU-550VX 550W ATX12V V2.2
6. AMD Phenom II X4 920 2.8GHz 4 x 512KB L2 Cache 6MB L3 Cache Socket AM2+ 125W Quad-Core Processor
7. G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Dual Channel
8. Western Digital Caviar Black WD1001FALS 1TB 7200 RPM 32MB Cache
9. LG Black 6X BD-ROM 16X DVD-ROM 40X CD-ROM SATA Internal Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM & 16X DVD±R DVD Burner Model GGC-H20L
10. COOLER MASTER GeminII S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler
A good system. The case is large enough for GTS 250 (PCI Express cable may be tight, however) and Geminii S. For pure HTPC, 9500 GT is a better choice (cheaper, consumes less power, as good in video playback). If you want GTS 250 for gaming, then this model (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150357) may be better.

Yeah, it is not going to be for gaming, mostly a HTPC. I wish, I'd asked before purchasing. I just wanted to make sure I was going to get the best play back for Blue-ray and HD content. I plan to get rid of cable and use a OTA antenna for my HD channels.

EDIT: Nevermind this post. I am in fact an idiot. Somehow I missed the BD DRive option at the end of the boot list. That worked. Duh. I will post later on the subtleties of USB key boots with Gigabyte boards...

I'll leave this message here to document for others who may have this brain fart issue. Would still like to know if the board can list just attached devices...

Hi folks,

Pardon my grumpiness but I feel like an idiot having to post this question.

Got Gigabyte GA-MA78GPM-UD2H mobo and the H20L Bluray drive. Things are working pretty well so I figured I'd back up the system partition. But I can't get the darned thing to boot from anything but the hard drive (SATA 1 TB Caviar drive). I use Acronis for this, either from a boot CD or from a boot USB key. Optical drive and HDD are both SATA.

Because boot USB key issues can be tweaky, I'll skip the USB chapter of the story and focus on the CD attempts I made when I couldn't get any of my flavors of USB keys to boot properly [Acronis plain rescue media, BART PE, and one other syslinux-based key].

So on to CD land:
Tried a one-time change to the boot order (F12 on bootup) and it lists about a dozen devices, most of which are fictional. So, no, I'm quite sure I don't have an LS120. Haven't seen one it a long time. I pick the CD drive, but it blows past it to windows when it tries to boot. Same thing if I list the CD as the official first boot device stored in CMOS, with HDD third after USB-HDD.

Am I missing something obvious? I keep thinking that since I've got a SATA BD drive, maybe it isn't a "CD" drive for this purpose. I'm used to the boot menu showing me things ACTUALLY CONNECTED to select from on F12 selection. Is there a way to get the gigabyte mobo to do this?

Thoughts, anyone?

Marc

I will be curious to see what Rene recommends. Right now my desktop pc handles all my ripping/encoding, etc... and my MSS handles my media streaming/storing, but I would like to consolidate this into one device. I am looking at doing something similar to Rene's Workstation/Home Media Server setup. I will stick with WHS for data protection (using duplication), but the drawback with WHS is that it does not integrate with Windows Media Center (one of the reasons why I chose dedicated HTPCs as extenders instead of windows extenders like the linksys). An alternative to the Linksys would be the SageTV HD 200s or the Popcorn Hours (my preference being the HD200s). I am hoping that the next version of WHS (I think right now called Vail) will finally integrate with Windows Media Center.

I've been planning on using Windows 7 with Media Center, but I'm open to all options at this point, just want to make sure its easy enough for my wife to use and stable enough that I don't wind up dead when Desperate Housewives fails to record. :)

I was under the impression that Popcorn Hour wouldn't work for live TV (much less multiple live TV feeds simultaneously). Those HD200s look nice...maybe I'll head down that road.

I've been planning on using Windows 7 with Media Center, but I'm open to all options at this point, just want to make sure its easy enough for my wife to use and stable enough that I don't wind up dead when Desperate Housewives fails to record. :)

I was under the impression that Popcorn Hour wouldn't work for live TV (much less multiple live TV feeds simultaneously). Those HD200s look nice...maybe I'll head down that road.

you could get some live tv functionality out of the PCH using GB-PVR, but I honestly wouldn't recommend it. IMO SageTV has the best server/extender integration out there (here is a brief write up I had done on the HD200 - http://dbone1026.blogspot.com/2009/03/sagetv-hd200-inital-review-and-setup.html). However, I am a huge fan of MediaBrowser in Windows Media Center, so that combined with W7 for me is a big bright spot.

As far as what O/S you choose, the reason why I go with WHS is because I will use my Media Server not only for streaming but also to backup my data (multiple pcs in my house) and well as to have redundancy for the data I have stored. I prefer the JBOD approach of WHS as opposed to setting up RAID1/RAID5 in VMC/W7. If you are not concerned about the backup features, etc... I definitely think W7 is the way to go.

Crazy how much the WAF plays in to all this :D

AMD 785G (http://www.fudzilla.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=13446&Itemid=1).

Does the AMD 785G matter over the AMD 780G if you are using a discrete GPU like the 4670?

Everytime I come back to AVS for answers, I find more questions. However, I also find over and over that the people on the forum are actually NICE. Very refreshing.

I have been researching a HTPC for a month or so now. Last week, I finally bit the bullet and ordered a few parts. After doing so, I stumbled across a few threads here in AVS.

I currently use a PS3 (via HDMI) to an Onkyo TX-SR805 (5.1 config), then via HDMI to my Samsung HL-R5678W DLP (which has a max input of 1080i). The audio is very nice.

I purchased a BD-ROM for the HTPC, and was hoping to play BluRay with the HTPC. I notice now, that setting up the audio to play 5.1 may not work well?

Here's what I've purchased:
Mobo: ASUS M3A78-EM (AMD 780G Chipset with HD3200) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131324)
CPU: Athlon 64 X2 5050e (45w) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103298)
CPU Fan: Cooler Master Vortex 752 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835103041)
RAM: Corsair XMS2 4GB (1GB x 4) DDR2 800
BD-ROM: LG GGC-H20L (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827136154)
HDD: Western Digital Caviar Green 1 TB
Case: hec 7K09 (270W FlexATX) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811121027)
Case Fan: SilenX IXP-54-09 (9 dBA) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835191006)


My original main purpose was to have a PC that would play content off my NAS (mostly ripped DVD's, ripped to multiple VOBs, or torrented shows/Hulu), surf the internet, and maybe play a small game or two (nothing graphics intensive). I figured "Hey, why not just get a BD-ROM, too?" Well, now I'm concerned that I won't be able to get BluRay audio from BluRay movies to output correctly.

Should I have considered the M3N78-EM? Is there really a GREAT option yet? Any other thoughts I might have missed?

Thanks!
DaleyKD

you could get some live tv functionality out of the PCH using GB-PVR, but I honestly wouldn't recommend it. IMO SageTV has the best server/extender integration out there (here is a brief write up I had done on the HD200 - http://dbone1026.blogspot.com/2009/03/sagetv-hd200-inital-review-and-setup.html). However, I am a huge fan of MediaBrowser in Windows Media Center, so that combined with W7 for me is a big bright spot.

As far as what O/S you choose, the reason why I go with WHS is because I will use my Media Server not only for streaming but also to backup my data (multiple pcs in my house) and well as to have redundancy for the data I have stored. I prefer the JBOD approach of WHS as opposed to setting up RAID1/RAID5 in VMC/W7. If you are not concerned about the backup features, etc... I definitely think W7 is the way to go.

Crazy how much the WAF plays in to all this :D

You have me intrigued with the SageTV idea. Not being familiar with Sage, do you think that it would meet my needs, or am I better off with the WMC/W7 combo? Backups wia WHS is not an issue for me...luckily. :) Either way I'll still need to build my HTPC.

You have me intrigued with the SageTV idea. Not being familiar with Sage, do you think that it would meet my needs, or am I better off with the WMC/W7 combo? Backups wia WHS is not an issue for me...luckily. :) Either way I'll still need to build my HTPC.

SageTV is a very solid option, especially if you are looking for a whole house solution where you would load up SageTV Media Center on your HTPC and then have the HD200s throughout the house. You can also play every almost every media file out there. I have one HD200 at home that I set up for my mom to use. Also, I know several other people I have talked to in other forums who have opted to go the SageTV route as well and are very happy (with WAF being a big consideration). You can use a service like PlayOn with the HD200 if you were interested in getting Hulu, etc... but probably not a big deal for you since you will have the tv/pvr function set up with your HTPC. SageTV is really geared towards the PVR/TV function, but they have made good strides in the other areas of a Media Center. If you have a dvd (even blu Ray dvd) in your HTPC dvd rom drive you can actually play that dvd on any HD200, another plus that I have not seen any Windows solution offer. My two biggest complaints are 1) it is only HDMI 1.2, so it does not support some of the lossless audio such as TrueHD/DTS-MA (really only matters for some Blu Ray/HD content) and 2) although not horrible UI is a little outdated compared to programs like MediaPortal, XBMC, and VMC.

What I would suggest is to download SageTV, they offer a 21 day trial, on your PC and test out, the UI on the HD200 in extender mode will be the exact same.

I think for me long term I will have a Media Server that will handle all my streaming/backup/etc... I will then probably have a combination of HTPCs and HD200s (or whatever the next versions are) throughout the house.

SageTV is a very solid option, especially if you are looking for a whole house solution where you would load up SageTV Media Center on your HTPC and then have the HD200s throughout the house. You can also play every almost every media file out there. I have one HD200 at home that I set up for my mom to use. Also, I know several other people I have talked to in other forums who have opted to go the SageTV route as well and are very happy (with WAF being a big consideration). You can use a service like PlayOn with the HD200 if you were interested in getting Hulu, etc... but probably not a big deal for you since you will have the tv/pvr function set up with your HTPC. SageTV is really geared towards the PVR/TV function, but they have made good strides in the other areas of a Media Center. If you have a dvd (even blu Ray dvd) in your HTPC dvd rom drive you can actually play that dvd on any HD200, another plus that I have not seen any Windows solution offer. My two biggest complaints are 1) it is only HDMI 1.2, so it does not support some of the lossless audio such as TrueHD/DTS-MA (really only matters for some Blu Ray/HD content) and 2) although not horrible UI is a little outdated compared to programs like MediaPortal, XBMC, and VMC.

What I would suggest is to download SageTV, they offer a 21 day trial, on your PC and test out, the UI on the HD200 in extender mode will be the exact same.

I think for me long term I will have a Media Server that will handle all my streaming/backup/etc... I will then probably have a combination of HTPCs and HD200s (or whatever the next versions are) throughout the house.

It sounds very similar to the W7/WMC with extenders model. I'll have to give the demo a shot and see if its "wife-approved". :) My only concern is that the HD200s are $200 a pop, and you can pick up Linksys 2100 or 2200s for around $100-150 each. Are the true advantages of Sage the ability to playback a wider variety of formats?

Anyone out there have experience with this case?

Antec Overture II Piano Black ATX Case (http://www.newegg.com/product/product.aspx?Item=N82E16811129162)


I know it's older, but I got a very good deal on one (just shy of $30 on clearance at a local store).

It's ATX, which is bigger than the matx I was originally planning to build, but I also think ATX opens up more possibilities for more tuners, add on cards, etc.

It sounds very similar to the W7/WMC with extenders model. I'll have to give the demo a shot and see if its "wife-approved". :) My only concern is that the HD200s are $200 a pop, and you can pick up Linksys 2100 or 2200s for around $100-150 each. Are the true advantages of Sage the ability to playback a wider variety of formats?

Format playback is probably one of the bigger advantages of the HD200 over the linksys. I have never used the linksys extenders so I cannot comment on them, the HD200 does a very nice job at upscaling SD content. The HD200 is slightly more expensive as you pointed out, and one additional cost to consider is that the SageTV Media Center Software for your HTPC costs an extra $50.

This card (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102818).


Finally I ordered most of my components, but I can´t find the Radeon 4670 that Rene recommended http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102818, or if I find it is like $110, what will be a good substitute (Radeon or GeForce) for best video an audio quality for my HTPC? (I don´t mind spending a little more, but I want to be sure that I will have the best quality and it will work flawlessly with my Asus Xonar Deluxe audio card)

Any comments or suggestions on my components? (I bought the i7 920, because I found a $50 off coupon with ewiz.com)
Someone told me that the XIGMATEK HDT-SD964 92mm Rifle CPU Cooler will not fit my case, because is 33mm taller than 100mm, that is why I'm planning on the GeminII S with the additional brackets for the i7, is this a good option?


CPU:Core i7 920 2.66 GHz LGA1366 (ordered)
CPU Cooler:GeminII S RR-CCH-PBJ1-GP
Brackets for the CPU Cooler:Socket Retention Bracket RR-ACC-1366-GP
MoBo:ASUS P6T Deluxe V2 LGA 1366 Intel X58 (ordered)
RAM:G.Skill F3-12800CL9T-6GBBNQ
GPU:SAPPHIRE Radeon HD 4670 GDDR4 512MB
HDD:Western Digital Caviar Green WD15EADS 1.5TB
PSU:Enermax MODU82+ EMD625AWT (ordered)
Case:Thermaltake DH 102 (ordered)
Audio Card:ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 Deluxe (ordered)
Optical Drive:LG GGC-H20L (ordered)
TV Tuner:Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250
Keyboard and Mouse:Logitech diNovo Mini (ordered)



Thanks again

Well, you can go with the GDDR3 memory, really not a huge diff;

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102820

And I just got the 4670 GDDR4 a week ago, but it's not really working with my older RPTV due to EDID issues, so I'm open to selling it.


Finally I ordered most of my components, but I can´t find the Radeon 4670 that Rene recommended http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102818, or if I find it is like $110, what will be a good substitute (Radeon or GeForce) for best video an audio quality for my HTPC? (I don´t mind spending a little more, but I want to be sure that I will have the best quality and it will work flawlessly with my Asus Xonar Deluxe audio card)

Thanks again

Well, you can go with the GDDR3 memory, really not a huge diff;

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102820

And I just got the 4670 GDDR4 a week ago, but it's not really working with my older RPTV due to EDID issues, so I'm open to selling it.

etcaroll pm sent.

I am too in the same boat with amd/amd....I was ready to order last night and should have....

I do see a bunch of deals on new egg, even a fan less 4670 but there are trade offs it looks like. Is there anything recommended between the 4670 GDDR4 and the HIS Radeon HD 4850 GDDR3?

It seems the 4670 was perfect for the HTPC as far as video and sound were concerned and I think it was supposed to be >20db which I like. Is there anything as good as or better than this in video, sound, and noise but >than the 125 after rebate i see on NewEgg for the HIS 4850?

I will look as well and write back if I find any candidates for cheap.

Between the 4670 and the 4850 is the new 4770. It's pretty new, so most of the cards look identical and most of them have the dual DVI configuration that is commonly used in Gaming configurations. I've seen two styles of coolers, one is the ATI reference style with the vent out the back and a squirrel cage fan and the other looks to have a larger conventional fan. I just put one in one of my HTPCs, but I haven't had much time to test more than just the basic functionality.

The 4770 is definitely a good value. Heat and noise are quite good with the "larger conventional fan" cooler according to what I have read. If you get antsy down the road and want better performance, 2 4770s in CrossfireX perform very well. Below are some good reviews:

Launch reviews:
http://www.anandtech.com/video/showdoc.aspx?i=3553
http://www.pcper.com/article.php?aid=700

CrossfireX reviews:
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/radeon-4770-crossfire,2288.html
http://benchmarkreviews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=273&Itemid=72

You can find these cards for under $100 with free shipping if you look around. Check out SlickDeals.com for leads.

Justin

Hmmm - the 4770 looks interesting, but what I'd really like to see is a card with one dvi, one hdmi and one other port that would accept a component 'dongle'.

Edit: I should have read further, when I got to the final link from above post, concerning Sapphire's 4770, I found the following;

"The first cards to market use a conventional two slot fan assisted cooler and offer dual DVI and TV-Out on the bracket, as well as support for HDMI (with Audio) over a dongle. Sapphire will be introducing additional models - including some Special Editions - in the coming weeks. "

Not thrilled with the thought of hdmi via dongle, but it would do till the 5xxx series arrive.

Finally I ordered most of my components, but I can´t find the Radeon 4670 that Rene recommended http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102818, or if I find it is like $110, what will be a good substitute (Radeon or GeForce) for best video an audio quality for my HTPC? (I don´t mind spending a little more, but I want to be sure that I will have the best quality and it will work flawlessly with my Asus Xonar Deluxe audio card)

Any comments or suggestions on my components? (I bought the i7 920, because I found a $50 off coupon with ewiz.com)
Someone told me that the XIGMATEK HDT-SD964 92mm Rifle CPU Cooler will not fit my case, because is 33mm taller than 100mm, that is why I'm planning on the GeminII S with the additional brackets for the i7, is this a good option?


CPU:Core i7 920 2.66 GHz LGA1366 (ordered)
CPU Cooler:GeminII S RR-CCH-PBJ1-GP
Brackets for the CPU Cooler:Socket Retention Bracket RR-ACC-1366-GP
MoBo:ASUS P6T Deluxe V2 LGA 1366 Intel X58 (ordered)
RAM:G.Skill F3-12800CL9T-6GBBNQ
GPU:SAPPHIRE Radeon HD 4670 GDDR4 512MB
HDD:Western Digital Caviar Green WD15EADS 1.5TB
PSU:Enermax MODU82+ EMD625AWT (ordered)
Case:Thermaltake DH 102 (ordered)
Audio Card:ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 Deluxe (ordered)
Optical Drive:LG GGC-H20L (ordered)
TV Tuner:Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250
Keyboard and Mouse:Logitech diNovo Mini (ordered)



Thanks again

Rene and everybody,

What about this card?
SAPPHIRE 100245HDMI Radeon HD 4850 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card - Retail http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102824

it has an additional $13.80 promo code in newegg, so after all the discounts and mail in rebate is $86.19. Do you think this is a good option?

Thanks

Everytime I come back to AVS for answers, I find more questions. However, I also find over and over that the people on the forum are actually NICE. Very refreshing.

I have been researching a HTPC for a month or so now. Last week, I finally bit the bullet and ordered a few parts. After doing so, I stumbled across a few threads here in AVS.

I currently use a PS3 (via HDMI) to an Onkyo TX-SR805 (5.1 config), then via HDMI to my Samsung HL-R5678W DLP (which has a max input of 1080i). The audio is very nice.

I purchased a BD-ROM for the HTPC, and was hoping to play BluRay with the HTPC. I notice now, that setting up the audio to play 5.1 may not work well?

Here's what I've purchased:
Mobo: ASUS M3A78-EM (AMD 780G Chipset with HD3200) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131324)
CPU: Athlon 64 X2 5050e (45w) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103298)
CPU Fan: Cooler Master Vortex 752 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835103041)
RAM: Corsair XMS2 4GB (1GB x 4) DDR2 800
BD-ROM: LG GGC-H20L (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827136154)
HDD: Western Digital Caviar Green 1 TB
Case: hec 7K09 (270W FlexATX) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811121027)
Case Fan: SilenX IXP-54-09 (9 dBA) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835191006)


My original main purpose was to have a PC that would play content off my NAS (mostly ripped DVD's, ripped to multiple VOBs, or torrented shows/Hulu), surf the internet, and maybe play a small game or two (nothing graphics intensive). I figured "Hey, why not just get a BD-ROM, too?" Well, now I'm concerned that I won't be able to get BluRay audio from BluRay movies to output correctly.

Should I have considered the M3N78-EM? Is there really a GREAT option yet? Any other thoughts I might have missed?

Thanks!
DaleyKD
The onboard HDMI supports stereo LPCM (16bit 48kHz), DD and DTS. If you want multichannel LPCM over HDMI, the best way is add a Radeon HD 4xxx card. My recommendation is Sapphire HD 4670 GDDR4 or HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670. GeForce 8300 is not bad but video is a bit weak.

Finally I ordered most of my components, but I can´t find the Radeon 4670 that Rene recommended http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102818, or if I find it is like $110, what will be a good substitute (Radeon or GeForce) for best video an audio quality for my HTPC? (I don´t mind spending a little more, but I want to be sure that I will have the best quality and it will work flawlessly with my Asus Xonar Deluxe audio card)
HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670 is a good card.

HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670 is a good card.

Rene,
What about the SAPPHIRE 100245HDMI Radeon HD 4850 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102824

I ask you this because this card has the VGA, DVI and HDMI interfaces already incorporated in the card and I will not need to add the adapters included in the other card.

Thanks

Dear Rene,

Following up on my last query to you, I came up with my decision now, I am going to use your recommendation for low-end Intel/Intel with modifications by using my current hardwares available from HP m8165cn (marked with *) as well as maximizing the HDD can be installed in the case (6 hard disks) as follows:

Low-End
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

Intel/Intel

System

* CPU: Pentium Core 2 Duo E6420 (C) DC 2.13GHz LGA775 *
CPU Cooler: Stock cooler
!!Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P LGA775 Intel P45 chipset ATX!!
* Memory: PC2-5300 240 pin DD2 SDRAM 2 x 1 GB *
* Graphics Card: GeForce 8500GT, 512 MB GDDR2, HDMI, dual-link DVI, S-video *
HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA 3.0Gbps
PSU: Corsair VX450W CMPSU-450VX 450W
Case: SilverStone Lascala LC17 SST-LC17B ATX

Please kindly bear with my newbie questions:
1. !! I know the motherboard is quite overkill for my system, but I need at least 7 SATAII ports (6 for hard disks, max for LC17 casing) and 1 for DVD burner. I believe UD3P is capable up to 8 SATAII ports. Can you recommend other cheaper Gigabyte MB with at least 7 SATAII ports, so I can cut the costs on MB? (don’t want to use additional card to expand the SATA port)

2. Considering the CPU, motherboard and graphic card, should I keep using the RAM PC2-5300 or use your recommendation A-DATA ADQVE1A16K DDR2-800 2 x 1GB or even higher?

3. For HDD, any other recommendation for faster HDD (if only have to add a little bit more money) considering my above system setup or WD6400AAKS is more than enough?

4. For PSU, with 6 hard disks plus 1 DVD burner installed altogether, is it enough power by using VX450W or should I change to higher watt (your recommendation?). Currently, I am using 1 unit Seagate 1.5TB, 1 unit Seagate 750GB, 1 unit Samsung 500GB on my HP. I plan to fill the empty slot up to max 6 hard disks including the operating system hard disk with WD Green 2TB (2 more units).

I apologize for asking to many questions (maybe some of them are stupid questions), but from where I live (very small town here in China), it is very hard to find good brand hardware, so I just want to make sure I will not buy the wrong hardware (not compatible, not fit into the casing, etc.)

Many thanks in advance,

mc.

Rene,
What about the SAPPHIRE 100245HDMI Radeon HD 4850 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102824

I ask you this because this card has the VGA, DVI and HDMI interfaces already incorporated in the card and I will not need to add the adapters included in the other card.

Thanks
HD 4850 consumes 40W more power at idle and video playback for nothing. If you play games, HD 4850 is a good choice, of course.

Company announces Windows 7 on track for holiday season; Windows Server 2008 R2 RC available today. (http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2009/May09/05-11TechEd09PR.mspx?rss_fdn=Press%20Releases)

LOS ANGELES — May 11, 2009 — Microsoft Tech•Ed North America 2009 kicked off today with announcements of new technologies that enable IT professionals and developers to help their organizations save money and improve efficiencies during difficult economic times. As part of today’s news, Microsoft Corp. announced that the company is anticipating that the next version of its client operating system, Windows 7, will be available to customers in time for the holiday shopping season. In addition, Windows Server 2008 R2 Release Candidate (RC) is available today with the final product releasing to market in the same timeframe as Windows 7.

Is anyone having these two problems with 7?

1. I can't skip foward on recorded TV shows using MC.

2. It crashes on resuming from sleep mode.

The second one is probably hardware related but the first one seems like its something disabled.

Is anyone having these two problems with 7?

1. I can't skip foward on recorded TV shows using MC.

2. It crashes on resuming from sleep mode.

The second one is probably hardware related but the first one seems like its something disabled.

Regarding #2 I have read several issues on TGB about S3 issues:

http://thegreenbutton.com/forums/thread/358492.aspx

Is anyone having these two problems with 7?

1. I can't skip foward on recorded TV shows using MC.

2. It crashes on resuming from sleep mode.

The second one is probably hardware related but the first one seems like its something disabled.
I definitely have a problem with #2, however it's not on a HTPC. It's on my regular desktop. It'll go to sleep (I think), but moving the mouse, or hitting the keyboard does nothing. Also, the HDD activity LED is lit-up solid.

Annoys the crap out of me.

Has anyone used this company azigdigital.com? They seem to be an HTPC builder that does everything for me. I am not very fluent on computers so any advice on the parts they use and software they install would be very helpful. I really like that they offer support...no one else I find seems to do this. I've been wanting an HTPC forever now... :(

I am looking to buy a TV card for my HTPC, and was wondering if you could recommend one if you had experience with them.

I DO NOT have HD in my country yet, so I'm buying a regular SD card.

I am looking at a Saphire TV Wonder Card, Asus MyCinema 7131(?) and then a few second brands like encore and kozumi.

Can anyone comment?

Thanks!

Just wondering how this setup is looking and if there is a major flaw? I'm about to order all the stuff tomorrow. I don't need cable cards since I use rss feeds to auto download all tv shows and movies I want. I will have 3 to 4 terrabites of storage to hold all my movies. This will be for managing and playing all my HD movies that are in different compressed containers like avi and mkv. I will be running windows 7 and use xbmc and boxee to view most of my content on a 42" 1080p plasma HDTV. It will also be managing all of my torrents at the same time.

Case: nMEDIAPC HTPC 1000B Micro ATX $99.99
Motherboard: MSI Media Live DIVA 5.1 $184
PSU: CORSAIR CMPSU-450VX 450W ATX12V
Processor: AMD Phenom 8750 2.4GHz Socket AM2+ 95W Triple-Core $125.99
Hard Drive: Seagate Barracuda 7200.12 ST31000528AS 1TB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" $100
Ram: Kingston 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 $51.99
Case Fans: 2 x SilenX IXP-34-16 60mm
1 x GELID Solutions FN-PX09-20 92mm
I'm not sure about getting a quiter processor fan because I'm not sure what the best one is for this case.
Total with a few extras looks like about $740
Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks

So here are my specs:

Keyboard/Mouse: Logitech diNovo Mini
Optical Drive: LG GGC-H20L Super Multi Blue Blu-ray Disc & HD DVD-ROM Drive
TV Tuner Card: Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250
OS: Windows 7 RC
CPU: Core 2 Quad Q8300 2.50GHz LGA775
CPU Cooler: Zalman CNPS9500A LED
Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P LGA775 Intel P45 chipset ATX
Memory: A-DATA ADQVE1B16K DDR2-800 2 x 2GB Kit
Graphics Card: SAPPHIRE Radeon HD 4670 GDDR4 512MB
HDD: Western Digital Caviar Green WD10EADS 1TB 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive X 2
PSU: ENERMAX MODU82+ EMD525AWT 525W
Case: Thermaltake DH202 VJ80011N2Z
TV: Sony 52"W4100 LCD

So here are some questions I have.
1. Does anyone know if these components fit in the Thermaltake case? Has anyone heard any news about the DH202? On the Thermaltake website it says:

Q: What is the longest graphics card that may be used with this chassis?
A: This chassis will fit a video card that is no longer than 10.6" with the removal of the HDD cage. Standard size fit is 9.6"
Q: What is the tallest cooler that will fit this chassis?
A: This chassis will fit a cooler that is no taller than 100mm(3.9")

So I guess that means the video card can only be 9.6" if I want to put more than 1 HDDs? Will that be okay with the video card I selected? Will the cooler also fit or do I have to find a low profile one?



If FAQ is correct, CNPS9500A LED won't fit the case. You are limited to a top-flow cooler (Geminii S is good and cheap, 88mm high with fan).

PRO82+ are MODU82+ are more or less identical except for the cabling system. If MODU82+ is cheaper, go for it.

4850 is only for gaming purpose. No worry about HD 4670 card length (only 6.6").

BTW Q8400 is now the same price as Q8300, $183. Go with Q8400 unless you find a better deal with Q8300.

So I've made some minor changes...

Keyboard/Mouse: Logitech diNovo Mini
Optical Drive: LG BH08LS20 Super Multi Blue - Blu-ray Disc Burner Drive
TV Tuner Card: Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250
OS: Windows 7 RC
CPU: Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400 Yorkfield 2.66GHz LGA 775
CPU Cooler: COOLER MASTER GeminII S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler - Retail
Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P LGA775 Intel P45 chipset ATX
Memory: A-DATA ADQVE1B16K DDR2-800 2 x 2GB Kit
Graphics Card: SAPPHIRE Radeon HD 4670 GDDR4 512MB
HDD: 1 Western Digital Caviar Black WD1001FALS (For OS, apps, and some media)
1 Caviar Green WD10EADS 1TB (For media storage)
PSU: ENERMAX MODU82+ EMD525AWT 525W
Case: Thermaltake DH202 VJ80011N2Z
TV: Sony 52"W4100 LCD

Well I've ordered half the parts, but I've just realized newegg has discontinued the Sapphire Radeon 4670 GDDR4 and I can't seem to find anyone else that carries it. I really liked the quietness and features of the card. Any other suggestions? Will the 4850 fit my case? I would like the audio and video to connect to my tv through HDMI. Thanks for any help.

What is a good size to make the boot (C:\) partition for a Vista home theater computer? I'm building a new HTPC with a 500 Gb hard drive.

The partition will only need to accomodate:

Vista Home Premium,
iTunes,
antivirus,
software for playing blu-ray discs,
perhaps some additional media player apps and utilities.


Experiences and suggestions will be appreciated.

HD 4850 consumes 40W more power at idle and video playback for nothing. If you play games, HD 4850 is a good choice, of course.

I just paid an overcharge but finally I got the Sapphire ATI Radeon HD4670 512MB DDR4 PCI-Express Video Card HDMI DVI-I VGA,Model 100255DDR4 -Retail from AlrightDeals ($104.40). It seems that this card is a very low energy consuming and quiet. Thanks for the recommendation Rene.

So I got my parts for my HTPC today, I have not put it together but I did take the Case out to check it out. Everything seems fine but there is no manual or driver in the box. I guess Antec is trying to save money by not including these parts. I have a blk square that looks like it hides something and 3 small black plastic things that connect to each other, does anyone know what they are for?

lata

Thanks Rene! I pulled the trigger and order the following system from newegg:

1 Antec Black Aluminum / Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case
1 GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H LGA 775 NVIDIA GeForce 9400 HDMI Micro ATX Intel Motherboard
1 CORSAIR CMPSU-450VX 450W ATX12V V2.2 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Compatible with Core i7 Power Supply
1 Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 Wolfdale 3.16GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor Model BX80570E8500
1 CORSAIR XMS2 DHX 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model TWIN2X4096-6400C4DHX 1 Western Digital Caviar Black WD1001FALS 1TB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Hard Drive
1 COOLER MASTER GeminII S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler

I will be installing windows 7 RC, is there anything else I am missing or need for my HTPC?

I will start building my HTPC tomorrow. I have one last question. What is the best Blue-ray/HD media player out today? I seen TMT3 and PDVD9, I just want something that works. I looked at the other threaded discussions and could not find what I was looking for. Unless I am blind and was looking in the wrong area.

Thanks renethx - this thread is fantastic.

I have some really basic questions, please forgive me if they've been answered already. But what am I gaining by adding a discreet graphics card over just using the IGP on the GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H LGA 775? I assume it'll handle deinterlacing better?

Also, in your recommendations for the mid-range systems, what are the main advantages/disadvantages of going with AMD vs. Intel? From my perspective, it basically looks like I get 3 cores in AMD vs 2 in Intel, but lower power consumption in Intel. Anything else?

Basically, I'm looking for a system to watch and record over the air TV (HD), rip and watch dvds, playback Blurays (rented from Netflix - no intent to rip), watch internet tv (Hulu, youtube, etc), listen to music (i'm not an audiophile). I'm pretty comfortable that my needs can be easily met by the mid-range systems, just wondering what the trade-offs were.

Thanks!

Just wondering how this setup is looking and if there is a major flaw? I'm about to order all the stuff tomorrow. I don't need cable cards since I use rss feeds to auto download all tv shows and movies I want. I will have 3 to 4 terrabites of storage to hold all my movies. This will be for managing and playing all my HD movies that are in different compressed containers like avi and mkv. I will be running windows 7 and use xbmc and boxee to view most of my content on a 42" 1080p plasma HDTV. It will also be managing all of my torrents at the same time.

Case: nMEDIAPC HTPC 1000B Micro ATX $99.99
Motherboard: MSI Media Live DIVA 5.1 $184
PSU: CORSAIR CMPSU-450VX 450W ATX12V
Processor: AMD Phenom 8750 2.4GHz Socket AM2+ 95W Triple-Core $125.99
Hard Drive: Seagate Barracuda 7200.12 ST31000528AS 1TB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" $100
Ram: Kingston 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 $51.99
Case Fans: 2 x SilenX IXP-34-16 60mm
1 x GELID Solutions FN-PX09-20 92mm
I'm not sure about getting a quiter processor fan because I'm not sure what the best one is for this case.
Total with a few extras looks like about $740
Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks
Good.

- You can find a slightly cheaper memory kit such as A-DATA ADQVE1B16K, $46.
- Geminii S is a good cooler for a CPU of > 90W.
- You may need a Y-cable (http://www.gelidsolutions.com/products/index.php?lid=2&cid=11&id=31) (to connect two 60mm fans to SYS_FAN1 connector).

Well I've ordered half the parts, but I've just realized newegg has discontinued the Sapphire Radeon 4670 GDDR4 and I can't seem to find anyone else that carries it. I really liked the quietness and features of the card. Any other suggestions? Will the 4850 fit my case? I would like the audio and video to connect to my tv through HDMI. Thanks for any help.
An alternative is HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670 GDDR3 512MB, $65. Very quiet. Use the bundled DVI-HDMI adapter.

HD 4850 is good for gaming. Otherwise it consumes 40W extra power at idle and video playback for nothing (and makes the system noisier).

So I got my parts for my HTPC today, I have not put it together but I did take the Case out to check it out. Everything seems fine but there is no manual or driver in the box. I guess Antec is trying to save money by not including these parts. I have a blk square that looks like it hides something and 3 small black plastic things that connect to each other, does anyone know what they are for?

lata
Where did you buy the case? A used product? You should have all the accessories seen in these pictures (http://www.newegg.com/Product/ShowImage.aspx?CurImage=11-129-054-12.jpg&Image=11-129-054-03.jpg%2c11-129-054-05.jpg%2c11-129-054-04.jpg%2c11-129-054-09.jpg%2c11-129-054-10.jpg%2c11-129-054-06.jpg%2c11-129-054-07.jpg%2c11-129-054-08.jpg%2c11-129-054-11.jpg%2c11-129-054-12.jpg%2c11-129-054-13.jpg%2c11-129-054-02.jpg&S7ImageFlag=0&WaterMark=1&Item=N82E16811129054&Depa=0&Description=Antec%20Black%20Fusion%20Remote%20Black%20Micro% 20ATX%20Media%20Center%20%2f%20HTPC%20Case).

You can download the manual here (http://www.antec.com/Believe_it/product.php?id=NzE4) and iMEDIAN software here (http://www.antec.com/Believe_it/index.php?page=support_faqDownload).

what is a good size to make the boot (c:\) partition for a vista home theater computer? I'm building a new htpc with a 500 gb hard drive.

The partition will only need to accomodate:

vista home premium,
itunes,
antivirus,
software for playing blu-ray discs,
perhaps some additional media player apps and utilities.


experiences and suggestions will be appreciated.
40gb-100gb.

I will start building my HTPC tomorrow. I have one last question. What is the best Blue-ray/HD media player out today? I seen TMT3 and PDVD9, I just want something that works. I looked at the other threaded discussions and could not find what I was looking for. Unless I am blind and was looking in the wrong area.
Perhaps TMT3 is a safer choice. I recommend you to try TMT 3 (http://www.arcsoft.com/public/software_title.asp?ProductID=362&dyContent=LANG_DOWNLOAD#submenu) and PowerDVD 9 (http://www.cyberlink.com/downloads/trials/powerdvd/download_en_US.html) and compare them yourself.

I have some really basic questions, please forgive me if they've been answered already. But what am I gaining by adding a discreet graphics card over just using the IGP on the GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H LGA 775? I assume it'll handle deinterlacing better?

Also, in your recommendations for the mid-range systems, what are the main advantages/disadvantages of going with AMD vs. Intel? From my perspective, it basically looks like I get 3 cores in AMD vs 2 in Intel, but lower power consumption in Intel. Anything else?

Basically, I'm looking for a system to watch and record over the air TV (HD), rip and watch dvds, playback Blurays (rented from Netflix - no intent to rip), watch internet tv (Hulu, youtube, etc), listen to music (i'm not an audiophile). I'm pretty comfortable that my needs can be easily met by the mid-range systems, just wondering what the trade-offs were.

Thanks!
Definitely a mid-range discrete graphics card is better than any IGP in deinterlacing 1080i contents (and other post-processing). If you want 7.1 HDMI audio, then HD 4670 is better than GeForce 9500 GT (as you don't need two HDMI cables). Otherwise either one is good.

There is not much difference between Intel and AMD. Intel is slightly better in power consumption at load.

I am trying to install win 7 rc on a brand new box. I have tried both the 32 and 64 bit versions on a 3tb raid set, a 120gb sata drive and a 200 gb ide drive and all have the same result. After I create a login name all I get on the screen is a Betta(fish) and in the bottom right corner it says "Windows 7 Evaluation Copy Build 7100"

I get nothing else. No taskbar, mouse icons, nothing. If I hit ctrl-alt-del I lose the screen completely but if I then hit the esc key the screen comes back again with the Betta and win7 messege.

Any ideas?

I also tried it with both the embedded video and the 4670 with the same results

Here is what I am trying to setup:

CPU: Phenom II x4 940

CPU Cooler: Xigmatek HDT-SD964

Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-MA790GP-UD4H AM2+ AMD 790GX chipset ATX
.
Memory: ocztech 4gb ddr2-1066 gold

Graphics Card: SAPPHIRE 100255DDR4 Radeon HD 4670 512MB

HDD: 2 seagate 1.5tb 3.5" sata 7200rpm

PSU: Enermax PRO82+ 525W EPR525AWT

Case: Antec Fusion Remote Max ATX, with LCD/IR receiver/remote

LG Black 6X BD-ROM 16X DVD-ROM 40X CD-ROM SATA Internal Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM & 16X DVD±R DVD Burner Model GGC-H20L

Dinovo mini

You could save $36 by going with DDR2 without sacrificing performance (moreover GA-EP45-UD3P seems to be more reliable than the T version).

I don't recommend RAID, in particular if you use on board RAID. If you need backup, use another method.

Could you help me with RAID!?
Is there a problem with on board RAID on this MB and I should use additional cards for RAID controller or is there a general problem with RAID in home PS's?
I really like the idea of having it because I wouldn't need to do backups so often.
If it would solve that problem I could use different HDD just for OS and then two WD green in RAID 1 just for data!

What is a good size to make the boot (C:\) partition for a Vista home theater computer? I'm building a new HTPC with a 500 Gb hard drive.

The partition will only need to accomodate:

Vista Home Premium,
iTunes,
antivirus,
software for playing blu-ray discs,
perhaps some additional media player apps and utilities.


Experiences and suggestions will be appreciated.

I set up a partition for Vista of 30GB, and I'm currently using around 19GB of it. Like you, all I've got is a number of applications for media playback and downloading.

I'd like some feedback on my proposed system. Some of my choices may seem strange, but a little background should give you my reasoning. This is my second PC build. The first was fairly disastrous due to mobo problems. The MSI mobo I first used just quit on me and the second mobo was DOA. I had to hire someone to fix the computer because, when a PC won't turn on, it is hard to know what part is defective.

Now a nasty virus is an excuse to upgrade my system. I am keeping as many parts from my last system, Lian Li case, Seasonic 400 W PS, graphics card and sound card because it cuts my costs. But even more important, I know these parts work.

So here is the system parts: ASUS M4A79 Deluxe
AMD Phenon II X4 940 BE 3.0Ghz
Xigmatek Dark Knight 51283V 120 MM
Corsair 4GB (2x2GB) 240 pin DDR2 SDRAM 1066 (PC2 8500)
WD Caviar Green WD6400AACS 7200

For the mobo, I was looking for a company with a great reputation, good documentation and a mobo that had caused the fewest problems for builders. The comments at Newegg indicated this board met my qualifications. Newegg also bundles this board with the AMD chip for a savings of $35.

The Corsair memory was chosen because they have a $20 rebate, which reduces the $69 original price to $49

The Caviar Green was chosen because I wanted to use my old PS to save cost and more importantly, know that the PS would not be culprit if the system does not turn on. I know a 400W PS is on the low side for a system like this and I wanted to save on power consumption so that my old Seasonic could handle the system with no problems.

Any comments???

I am planning a medium power Micro ATX system. Has any tried the new 4770 ATI video boards? Reviews claim these cards have power consumption like a 4650 and run as fast as a 4850 GPU.

Does anyone have experience with these new boards? My concern is all the boards for sale follow the ATI reference design. All of the Exhaust fan air dumps back into the HTPC case and not out the back. Is the cooling noisy or inadequate for HTPC use. What about the drivers? Are they stable with HTPC applications?

I would rather see a IceQ4 version of this card but none appear to exist.

Power Consumption on the 4770 is reported to be quite a bit more then the 4670 @ idle, but less than the 48xx series. Power consumption @ load on the 4770 in much better than the 48xx series.

As you look around the net, you will see two styles of coolers. One is the style that newegg shows for everything it carries. The other style uses a duct and pushes the heat out the back. I don't know which is quieter, but I bought an XFX version at the local Fry's electronics and it is the style that vents out the back. The box says it is Part No.: HD-477A-YDFC Ver A.1

I haven't listened to it up close. I can tell you that I can't hear it from my couch :) and the whole machine is quieter since I was able to remove a different fan due to the externally venting graphics card

I haven't tested it on games yet, but the net is full of reviews that do that. For HTPC is works great

Not having upgraded my PC for a few years, decided to build a HTPC since I got a new 50" Panny plasma 6 months ago. I also have a Playstation 3 which is used to watch BD and stream stuff from this PC using Widows Media Player 11. Also Netflix's Roku, plus DVR from cable co. All this is connected through a Yamaha AVR by HDMI. The AVR has 4 HDMI inputs, which leaves 1 left for the HTPC. The new build is AMD.
Phenom II X3 720: Asus M3A78 : ATI 4850 : LG GGC-H20L Blu Ray :4 GB Ram :Mid Tower Cooler Master Centurion CAC-T05 : BFG ATX 550 PS

1 What OS would be better to use now. I have WIN 7 RC in 32 and 64 bit or Win XP Pro which I have a license for. I want to dual boot on separate Drives.

2 Plasma is a 720p not 1080p, will this case problems

3 What kind of remote can i get to utilize my Harmony One. I plan on getting TMT 3 Platinum. I have been following this thread and still confused on this part.

I plan to play a few games using this setup as mouse and keyboard is easier than PS 3 controler.

Thank you

Could you help me with RAID!?
Is there a problem with on board RAID on this MB and I should use additional cards for RAID controller or is there a general problem with RAID in home PS's?
I really like the idea of having it because I wouldn't need to do backups so often.
If it would solve that problem I could use different HDD just for OS and then two WD green in RAID 1 just for data!
A potential problem of onboard RAID is the lack of online capacity expansion. RAID 1/5 is not a backup solution. These are intended for uninterrupted operation in case of a drive failure.

Any comments???
Good.

Not having upgraded my PC for a few years, decided to build a HTPC since I got a new 50" Panny plasma 6 months ago. I also have a Playstation 3 which is used to watch BD and stream stuff from this PC using Widows Media Player 11. Also Netflix's Roku, plus DVR from cable co. All this is connected through a Yamaha AVR by HDMI. The AVR has 4 HDMI inputs, which leaves 1 left for the HTPC. The new build is AMD.
Phenom II X3 720: Asus M3A78 : ATI 4850 : LG GGC-H20L Blu Ray :4 GB Ram :Mid Tower Cooler Master Centurion CAC-T05 : BFG ATX 550 PS

1 What OS would be better to use now. I have WIN 7 RC in 32 and 64 bit or Win XP Pro which I have a license for. I want to dual boot on separate Drives.

2 Plasma is a 720p not 1080p, will this case problems

3 What kind of remote can i get to utilize my Harmony One. I plan on getting TMT 3 Platinum. I have been following this thread and still confused on this part.

I plan to play a few games using this setup as mouse and keyboard is easier than PS 3 controler.

Thank you
1. If you go with dual boot, then Win 7 RC 32-bit and XP Pro.
2. No.
3. Check peripherals section of page 85. They should work with Harmony One.

Dear Rene,

Following up on my last query to you, I came up with my decision now, I am going to use your recommendation for low-end Intel/Intel with modifications by using my current hardwares available from HP m8165cn (marked with *) as well as maximizing the HDD can be installed in the case (6 hard disks) as follows:

Low-End
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

Intel/Intel

System

* CPU: Pentium Core 2 Duo E6420 (C) DC 2.13GHz LGA775 *
CPU Cooler: Stock cooler
!!Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P LGA775 Intel P45 chipset ATX!!
* Memory: PC2-5300 240 pin DD2 SDRAM 2 x 1 GB *
* Graphics Card: GeForce 8500GT, 512 MB GDDR2, HDMI, dual-link DVI, S-video *
HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA 3.0Gbps
PSU: Corsair VX450W CMPSU-450VX 450W
Case: SilverStone Lascala LC17 SST-LC17B ATX

Please kindly bear with my newbie questions:
1. !! I know the motherboard is quite overkill for my system, but I need at least 7 SATAII ports (6 for hard disks, max for LC17 casing) and 1 for DVD burner. I believe UD3P is capable up to 8 SATAII ports. Can you recommend other cheaper Gigabyte MB with at least 7 SATAII ports, so I can cut the costs on MB? (don’t want to use additional card to expand the SATA port)

2. Considering the CPU, motherboard and graphic card, should I keep using the RAM PC2-5300 or use your recommendation A-DATA ADQVE1A16K DDR2-800 2 x 1GB or even higher?

3. For HDD, any other recommendation for faster HDD (if only have to add a little bit more money) considering my above system setup or WD6400AAKS is more than enough?

4. For PSU, with 6 hard disks plus 1 DVD burner installed altogether, is it enough power by using VX450W or should I change to higher watt (your recommendation?). Currently, I am using 1 unit Seagate 1.5TB, 1 unit Seagate 750GB, 1 unit Samsung 500GB on my HP. I plan to fill the empty slot up to max 6 hard disks including the operating system hard disk with WD Green 2TB (2 more units).

I apologize for asking to many questions (maybe some of them are stupid questions), but from where I live (very small town here in China), it is very hard to find good brand hardware, so I just want to make sure I will not buy the wrong hardware (not compatible, not fit into the casing, etc.)

Many thanks in advance,

mc.

Mario,

7+ SATA ports on a mb are not too common but 6 SATA ports are very common and less money. Why not get a PATA optical drive? Most mb have one PATA port and then you would have all SATA ports available for hard drives.

Trying to get a handle on the Hard Drive recommendations...

Not sure what the Green Drive thing is and wondering if I should consider those or not.

I'm also looking at WD versus Seagate...are the WD drives just that much better or is it a price thing? I'm pretty loyal to Seagate but if the WD drives are being recommended, I'd hate to go against the stream here...

I have a 1TB external that I'm planning on using but should I substitute a 1TB drive for the 640GB WD drive?

Questions, Questions, Questions...what to do?

Dear Rene,

Following up on my last query to you, I came up with my decision now, I am going to use your recommendation for low-end Intel/Intel with modifications by using my current hardwares available from HP m8165cn (marked with *) as well as maximizing the HDD can be installed in the case (6 hard disks) as follows:

Low-End
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

Intel/Intel

System

* CPU: Pentium Core 2 Duo E6420 (C) DC 2.13GHz LGA775 *
CPU Cooler: Stock cooler
!!Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P LGA775 Intel P45 chipset ATX!!
* Memory: PC2-5300 240 pin DD2 SDRAM 2 x 1 GB *
* Graphics Card: GeForce 8500GT, 512 MB GDDR2, HDMI, dual-link DVI, S-video *
HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA 3.0Gbps
PSU: Corsair VX450W CMPSU-450VX 450W
Case: SilverStone Lascala LC17 SST-LC17B ATX

Please kindly bear with my newbie questions:
1. !! I know the motherboard is quite overkill for my system, but I need at least 7 SATAII ports (6 for hard disks, max for LC17 casing) and 1 for DVD burner. I believe UD3P is capable up to 8 SATAII ports. Can you recommend other cheaper Gigabyte MB with at least 7 SATAII ports, so I can cut the costs on MB? (don’t want to use additional card to expand the SATA port)

2. Considering the CPU, motherboard and graphic card, should I keep using the RAM PC2-5300 or use your recommendation A-DATA ADQVE1A16K DDR2-800 2 x 1GB or even higher?

3. For HDD, any other recommendation for faster HDD (if only have to add a little bit more money) considering my above system setup or WD6400AAKS is more than enough?

4. For PSU, with 6 hard disks plus 1 DVD burner installed altogether, is it enough power by using VX450W or should I change to higher watt (your recommendation?). Currently, I am using 1 unit Seagate 1.5TB, 1 unit Seagate 750GB, 1 unit Samsung 500GB on my HP. I plan to fill the empty slot up to max 6 hard disks including the operating system hard disk with WD Green 2TB (2 more units).

I apologize for asking to many questions (maybe some of them are stupid questions), but from where I live (very small town here in China), it is very hard to find good brand hardware, so I just want to make sure I will not buy the wrong hardware (not compatible, not fit into the casing, etc.)

Many thanks in advance,

mc.

Rene, what's your advice on putting many (4-6) drives in a HTPC? I'm planning to build one, have been reading this thread for awhile and have not found an answer to this question, and Mario's post seemed like a good time to bug you about this. I'm wavering between a HTPC with 1 drive and a separate media server, or putting about 5 1.5 TB WD Green drives in the HTPC. The latter option would be cheaper and should keep me going for at least a couple years. But would it produce excessive heat and noise?

-cej

Trying to get a handle on the Hard Drive recommendations...

Not sure what the Green Drive thing is and wondering if I should consider those or not.

I'm also looking at WD versus Seagate...are the WD drives just that much better or is it a price thing? I'm pretty loyal to Seagate but if the WD drives are being recommended, I'd hate to go against the stream here...

I have a 1TB external that I'm planning on using but should I substitute a 1TB drive for the 640GB WD drive?

Questions, Questions, Questions...what to do?

The WD Green drives are focused on lower power consumption and make for great drives in media servers. I have 7 1TB drives in my server. However, if you are looking for a drive for your O/S I would recommend the WD Caviar Black or the Seagate Barracuda

Rene, what's your advice on putting many (4-6) drives in a HTPC? I'm planning to build one, have been reading this thread for awhile and have not found an answer to this question, and Mario's post seemed like a good time to bug you about this. I'm wavering between a HTPC with 1 drive and a separate media server, or putting about 5 1.5 TB WD Green drives in the HTPC. The latter option would be cheaper and should keep me going for at least a couple years. But would it produce excessive heat and noise?
If you want to avoid a server for now, then use one smaller (and faster) drive for OS and several larger drives for media files. For example, WD6400AAKS for OS (create a small partition, say 100GB, for OS and use the rest for scratch space), and five WD10EADS or HD154UI (not available in US yet). The max power consumption of WD10EADS is only 5.4W. So you shouldn't worry about power consumption (and noise).

If you want to avoid a server for now, then use one smaller (and faster) drive for OS and several larger drives for media files. For example, WD6400AAKS for OS (create a small partition, say 100GB, for OS and use the rest for scratch space), and five WD10EADS or HD154UI (not available in US yet). The max power consumption of WD10EADS is only 5.4W. So you shouldn't worry about power consumption (and noise).

renethx:

for us that don't have specialized measuring equipment and such, is there any site or something where we can find for the components we choose, the idle, typical, max, etc power consumption they have, so as to calculate the total and also for psu considerations?

Thanks!

Well, you can go with the GDDR3 memory, really not a huge diff;

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102820

And I just got the 4670 GDDR4 a week ago, but it's not really working with my older RPTV due to EDID issues, so I'm open to selling it.

Finally got CAT 9.4 to install in place of 9.1, and though it still doesn't show my TV, I can now force the needed resolutions, so I'll be keeping the 4670 for now.

Rene:

Thanks for the quick reply on my equipment choices. I pulled the trigger and ordered all the parts today. It should be a substantial upgrade on my current system which was getting very slow. Now I just have to hope that there is no repeat of past problems. I'm overdue for a complication free build and I chose components which I hope offer me the best chance for that result.

I toyed briefly with getting a SS drive primarily for the OS, but they are still relatively expensive (3x the cost of the WD drive I chose) and from the comments posted at Newegg, the drives are not yet for the inexperienced builder. As an alternative, I am going to try to keep the programs that start on boot up to a minimum and take your advice and partition 100G of my HD for the OS. That should help.

If you want to avoid a server for now, then use one smaller (and faster) drive for OS and several larger drives for media files. For example, WD6400AAKS for OS (create a small partition, say 100GB, for OS and use the rest for scratch space), and five WD10EADS or HD154UI (not available in US yet). The max power consumption of WD10EADS is only 5.4W. So you shouldn't worry about power consumption (and noise).

Thanks, this finally puts an end to my wavering! I'll skip the server for now, and by the time I run out of HDD space I should be able to pick up an external 20 TB SSD for about $75 :D

Definitely a mid-range discrete graphics card is better than any IGP in deinterlacing 1080i contents (and other post-processing). If you want 7.1 HDMI audio, then HD 4670 is better than GeForce 9500 GT (as you don't need two HDMI cables). Otherwise either one is good.

There is not much difference between Intel and AMD. Intel is slightly better in power consumption at load.

Thanks! I think I'll go with your mid-range intel system, but use the 1TB WD caviar green (WD10EADS). Also, couldn't find your cpu cooler, but found this instead Cooler Master Geminii S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP... will that be fine?

Oh, and I couldn't find SAPPHIRE Radeon HD 4670 GDDR4 512MB anywhere... is there a good substitute, or can you point me where I can find it....

Appreciate the help.

I remember I posted it somewhere in this forum. Please search with keyword 'Autohotkey' (and 'profile') and user name 'renethx'.

I searched but couldn't find anything related to changing the display, only setting up audio.

Is it possible to use autohotkey to change the displays (the same way ATI does it using hotkeys).

Thanks

renethx:

for us that don't have specialized measuring equipment and such, is there any site or something where we can find for the components we choose, the idle, typical, max, etc power consumption they have, so as to calculate the total and also for psu considerations?

Thanks!
Usually you can find specifications of the drive (including power consumption) in the manufacturer's website. These values are not so different from actual measurements by hardware reviewers (e.g. StorageReview.com).

1 x WD6400AAKS: 8.3W (Read/Write)
5 x WD10EADS: 27W (Read/Write)
Total: 35.3W (Read/Write)

So practically you shouldn't worry about the power consumption of six hard drives.

Thanks! I think I'll go with your mid-range intel system, but use the 1TB WD caviar green (WD10EADS). Also, couldn't find your cpu cooler, but found this instead Cooler Master Geminii S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP... will that be fine?

Oh, and I couldn't find SAPPHIRE Radeon HD 4670 GDDR4 512MB anywhere... is there a good substitute, or can you point me where I can find it....

Appreciate the help.
Geminii S is one of the best coolers for HTPC. HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670 is a good quiet card.

I searched but couldn't find anything related to changing the display, only setting up audio.

Is it possible to use autohotkey to change the displays (the same way ATI does it using hotkeys).

Thanks
Here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15201728#post15201728)

Having trouble picking the best case, please help.

1.) Silverstone SST-LC16B-MR

2.) Thermaltake DH-101 or DH-202

3.) Moneual 832B

4.) Zalman HD-160 PLUS

I am leaning towards LC16B. Like the Antec Remote Max but no card reader.
Also is this (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102822) card a good replacement for the 4670, since it is no longer available at the Egg. will it fit any/all these cases?

Having trouble picking the best case, please help.

1.) Silverstone SST-LC16B-MR

2.) Thermaltake DH-101 or DH-202

3.) Moneual 832B

4.) Zalman HD-160 PLUS

I am leaning towards LC16B. Like the Antec Remote Max but no card reader.
Also is this (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102822) card a good replacement for the 4670, since it is no longer available at the Egg. will it fit any/all these cases?
If you need a card reader, then LC16 should be a good choice. You can't use a longer card such as HD 4830 with LC16 (check the case inside pictures). I recommend HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670.

If you need a card reader, then LC16 should be a good choice. You can't use a longer card such as HD 4830 with LC16 (check the case inside pictures). I recommend HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670.
Are there any special requirements or negatives with that card, having HDMI per an adapter?

If you need a card reader, then LC16 should be a good choice. You can't use a longer card such as HD 4830 with LC16 (check the case inside pictures). I recommend HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670.
Better yet would the 4830 fit the Antec case, I guess I could just use a usb card reader.

Are there any special requirements or negatives with that card, having HDMI per an adapter?
No negative.

HD 4830 consumes 25W more power uselessly at idle and video playback (source (http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/video/display/radeon-hd4830_4.html#sect0)). If you don't play games, stay with HD 4670.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=142702&stc=1&d=1242277632

No negative.

HD 4830 consumes 25W more power uselessly at idle and video playback (source (http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/video/display/radeon-hd4830_4.html#sect0)). If you don't play games, stay with HD 4670.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=142702&stc=1&d=1242277632
Thank you, you make it seem so easy.

I have read your rec's. and appreciate them.

Anything else I should know about the LC16

Hello Renethx and everyone,

I'm making my final list for a build with GA-MA780-UD3H with a 5050e and I do have some questions about Ram recommendation-

I hear the lower the timings the better and I think I can go with 1066 ram on this MB (if this even makes a difference). The ram that you recommended, the A DATA is DDR2 800/ 5-5-5-18.

Should I look for lower timing/ a higher speed? Will this make little to know difference? Will I see a difference with the G-Skill? (I did see that you said there is no difference for intel on the page 1 version of the guide but with AMD this is not the case...)

I have tried to research this and I have heard very conflicting things- I really do appreciate any explanation/advise you or anyone can give- thank you!

Hello Renethx and everyone,

I'm making my final list for a build with GA-MA780-UD3H with a 5050e and I do have some questions about Ram recommendation-

I hear the lower the timings the better and I think I can go with 1066 ram on this MB (if this even makes a difference). The ram that you recommended, the A DATA is DDR2 800/ 5-5-5-18.

Should I look for lower timing/ a higher speed? Will this make little to know difference? Will I see a difference with the G-Skill? (I did see that you said there is no difference for intel on the page 1 version of the guide but with AMD this is not the case...)

I have tried to research this and I have heard very conflicting things- I really do appreciate any explanation/advise you or anyone can give- thank you!
Memory timings are immaterial for video playback. AM2 supports up to DDR2-800, so DDR2-1066 is useless. Stay with my recommendation.

Memory timings are immaterial for video playback. AM2 supports up to DDR2-800, so DDR2-1066 is useless. Stay with my recommendation.

Thank you so much for the quick response! i will do what you say.

....now to decide between 2x1GB or 2x2GB ...almost there...:)

Here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15201728#post15201728)

Thanks. Got it working. I was only searching this thread.

Your help is much appreciated.

Cheers.

Could you help me with RAID!?
Is there a problem with on board RAID on this MB and I should use additional cards for RAID controller or is there a general problem with RAID in home PS's?
I really like the idea of having it because I wouldn't need to do backups so often.
You still need to do backups just as often.
If a file(s) gets corrupted - then RAID mirrors the corruption to both drives.
If a file(s) gets deleted - then RAID mirrors the deletion to both drives.
If your filesystem gets corrupted - then RAID mirrors the corruption to both drives.
If you get a Virus - then RAID makes sure the other drive is infected too.
If your house is struck by lightening - then RAID means both your drives are toast.
etc. etc.

RAID has absolutely no effect on your backup strategy - it simply guards against a none-destructive failure of a single drive. That's it. There are many other factors that put your data at risk !

Rene,

I know you get a lot of requests for info, so any suggestions are appreciated, but I understand if you can't get to mine.

I'm starting to build a whole-home Media Center (using Vista or W7) that I would like to use as a DVR, watch SD/HDTV in multiple rooms simultaneously (different channels), and access my small DVD and MP3 library. All while not killing me with an electric bill from hell.

I will also have 6 speaker zones around the house and 4 surveillance cameras eventually. I'd like to be able to pull those in if at all possible.

The goal is to have a simple (wife-approved) interface to access all the media.

I'm thinking of using the following components:
Case/PSU: Undecided
Tuner Card: DVR-2250 (x2)
Mobo:GIGABYTE GA-MA780G-UD3H
RAM: 4GB of ?
CPU:Athlon 64 X2 5200+ ADO5200DOBOX
HDD: Undecided
Video Card: Integrated
MCEs: DMA 2100/2200s CAT 6 wired

Thanks!

Thanks for all the help and info in this guide. I completed my HTPC set-up using Win 7 RC 64bit OS.

I have one small problem to resolve yet. There is no Audio, no matter what I have tried. I have the latest Realtek drivers R2.23.

The SPDIF (optical) is set up from the Mobo directly to the HDTV Aquos 42" (LC42D64U) currently. I have tried both the AVR and directly to TV with no sound for either.

The video is hooked up through the DVI to HMDI adapter from VGA to TV's HDMI port.

ASUS M3N78-EM AM2+/AM2 NVIDIA GeForce 8300 HDMI Micro ATX AMD Motherboard
EVGA 512-P3-1150-TR GeForce GTS 250 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready

Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case - Retail

Anyone have any ideas, or link that may help me resolve this issue? I am starting to wonder if I bought the right Mobo.


Yes, the PCI-e is tight, I have to modify my case to make some clearance.

Rene,

I know you get a lot of requests for info, so any suggestions are appreciated, but I understand if you can't get to mine.

I'm starting to build a whole-home Media Center (using Vista or W7) that I would like to use as a DVR, watch SD/HDTV in multiple rooms simultaneously (different channels), and access my small DVD and MP3 library. All while not killing me with an electric bill from hell.

I will also have 6 speaker zones around the house and 4 surveillance cameras eventually. I'd like to be able to pull those in if at all possible.

The goal is to have a simple (wife-approved) interface to access all the media.

I'm thinking of using the following components:
Case/PSU: Undecided
Tuner Card: DVR-2250 (x2)
Mobo:GIGABYTE GA-MA780G-UD3H
RAM: 4GB of ?
CPU:Athlon 64 X2 5200+ ADO5200DOBOX
HDD: Undecided
Video Card: Integrated
MCEs: DMA 2100/2200s CAT 6 wired
Are you going to use a separate server? Where are you going to place it? (These affect the case selection.) Audio requirement?

Are you going to use a separate server? Where are you going to place it? (These affect the case selection.) Audio requirement?

Thanks for the reply. I would like to place it in the basement and be able to take advantage of all the functionality from anywhere in the house. The case can be big and ugly. Having looked around, it seems I'll need at least 3 PCIe slots on the mobo for 2 HD tuners and a possible PC based audio switching solution.

As of now I have all 6 zones of speakers wired to the same location in the basement. In-wall volume controls. No amp/receiver purchased (other than the Onkyo 2 channel I have). Been looking at PC based options, but haven't found anything appealing yet.

Thanks for the reply. I would like to place it in the basement and be able to take advantage of all the functionality from anywhere in the house. The case can be big and ugly. Having looked around, it seems I'll need at least 3 PCIe slots on the mobo for 2 HD tuners and a possible PC based audio switching solution.

As of now I have all 6 zones of speakers wired to the same location in the basement. In-wall volume controls. No amp/receiver purchased (other than the Onkyo 2 channel I have). Been looking at PC based options, but haven't found anything appealing yet.
Then you could use a home media server mentioned on page 85. Cooler Master or Antec case supports 15-18 HDDs with 5-in-3 drive cages. If you need more storage space, go with Norco. CPU: Athlon X2 7750, RAM: 2 x 2GB DDR2-800. The media formats supported by DMA2100/2200 are somewhat limited (in particular no DVD/MKV streaming if it is your concern; check this (http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/archive/2008/02/25/1522823.aspx)).

Thanks for all the help and info in this guide. I completed my HTPC set-up using Win 7 RC 64bit OS.

I have one small problem to resolve yet. There is no Audio, no matter what I have tried. I have the latest Realtek drivers R2.23.

The SPDIF (optical) is set up from the Mobo directly to the HDTV Aquos 42" (LC42D64U) currently. I have tried both the AVR and directly to TV with no sound for either.

The video is hooked up through the DVI to HMDI adapter from VGA to TV's HDMI port.

ASUS M3N78-EM AM2+/AM2 NVIDIA GeForce 8300 HDMI Micro ATX AMD Motherboard
EVGA 512-P3-1150-TR GeForce GTS 250 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready
Does your receiver support HDMI?

Then you could use a home media server mentioned on page 85. Cooler Master or Antec case supports 15-18 HDDs with 5-in-3 drive cages. If you need more storage space, go with Norco. CPU: Athlon X2 7750, RAM: 2 x 2GB DDR2-800. The media formats supported by DMA2100/2200 are somewhat limited (in particular no DVD/MKV streaming if it is your concern; check this (http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/archive/2008/02/25/1522823.aspx)).

Sounds good, thanks for the redirect. I saw that configuration, but I can't imagine using more than 2-3TB, so I thought it would be overkill, but it's probably not.

It also sounds like my setup would require me to rip my DVD collection into MP4 or WMV files for playback over the extenders, given their limited support. I'll mostly be using the DVR and SD/HDTV functionality, but the movie playback and mp3 streaming would be a nice touch.

It would certainly be nice if there were a way to do this (and still be able to afford the house) without extenders. If anyone has any ideas, I'm open to them!!

It would certainly be nice if there were a way to do this (and still be able to afford the house) without extenders. If anyone has any ideas, I'm open to them!!

If you haven't bought your tvs yet, you could look at getting a DLNA compliant tv....

Geminii S is one of the best coolers for HTPC. HIS H467QT512P Radeon HD 4670 is a good quiet card.

Excellent... thanks! I might just try the Gigabyte mobo with the 9300 IGP to see if it suits my purposes and then get a card later if it doesn't.

No concerns with the WD 1TB drive?

If you haven't bought your tvs yet, you could look at getting a DLNA compliant tv....

I haven't looked into those, but I will. I have two of my TVs, but will be buying 2 more. Thanks for the idea!

I haven't looked into those, but I will. I have two of my TVs, but will be buying 2 more. Thanks for the idea!

I know it would be another "pc" to maintain, but I woudl also consider looking at the new Ion platforms (either something like the Acer or the Zotac Mini-ITX). You should be able to keep the size small, energy efficient, and won't have to deal with limitations of most extenders, especially since i think one of your focuses is on live tv.

Does your receiver support HDMI?

No, it is an older unit RCA Professional Series STAV 4180. It has SPDIF optical and coaxial for audio. That might be were my problems lies. Do you recommend any decently price AVR?

Also, I changed the BIOS from spdif to HDMI audio. to see if I could get it to take through the TV's HDMI and no luck.

It shows on the sound display.
Realtek HMDI Output
Realtek High Definition Audio (current Realtek driver 2.23)
(checked) default device

Nvidia HMDI Output
Nvidia HDMI Audio
Not plugged in

I am not sure if that is referring to the HDMI on the Mobo or the DVI to HDMI adapter on the VGA.

Should I be able to get video and audio through the VGA via the DVI to HDMI adapter? This HTPC is all new to me, so please excuse me for all the questions.

I know it would be another "pc" to maintain, but I woudl also consider looking at the new Ion platforms (either something like the Acer or the Zotac Mini-ITX). You should be able to keep the size small, energy efficient, and won't have to deal with limitations of most extenders, especially since i think one of your focuses is on live tv.

Going the mini-ITX route is a major design change, don't get me wrong, I don't mind that! I would be interested in your thoughts on the pros and cons of going that route. We'll have 4 TVs initially, and I don't like the idea of having a set top box for each one. I'd prefer no components (other than the TV) being visible. I plan on hiding the DMAs behind the TVs with velcro.

Going the mini-ITX route is a major design change, don't get me wrong, I don't mind that! I would be interested in your thoughts on the pros and cons of going that route. We'll have 4 TVs initially, and I don't like the idea of having a set top box for each one. I'd prefer no components (other than the TV) being visible. I plan on hiding the DMAs behind the TVs with velcro.

I think you will be fine with the DMAs as long as you are ok with the limitations (as Rene mentioned no mkv supprt/DVDs/etc...). I have two HTPCs hooked up to 2 tvs and am happy with that route, but it is not exactly cost effective compared to other options. The HD200 is a good option as well but like every other option has its pros and cons. I wouldn't do the DMAs for my setup only because the limitations would make it nearly useless for me, but everyones needs are going to be different. One day this will all work seemlessly without all the noise and headache, right????

Thanks again for your advice in the past. Now on to the next project - What are your recomendations for a Notbook/laptop HTPC?

My wife has to get one for work (mostly just MS Office etc), so I thought it might as well serve a dual purpose for when we go away - I could transfer movies (avi/dvd rips) across to it and connect it via HDMI to plasmas/LCDs for watching. I would also probably plug in an external HDD (1TB) if we were away, so it may end up playing BD rips too?? Am I basically looking for anything with 4gb ram and ATI mobility? What version ATI would be best in this situation?
Thanks

Thanks again for your advice in the past. Now on to the next project - What are your recomendations for a Notbook/laptop HTPC?

My wife has to get one for work (mostly just MS Office etc), so I thought it might as well serve a dual purpose for when we go away - I could transfer movies (avi/dvd rips) across to it and connect it via HDMI to plasmas/LCDs for watching. I would also probably plug in an external HDD (1TB) if we were away, so it may end up playing BD rips too?? Am I basically looking for anything with 4gb ram and ATI mobility? What version ATI would be best in this situation?
Thanks

Great idea. I actually did that with my work laptop, saved me when I went on vacation, put my sons movies on there and had myself a traveling htpc!!!

I want a dual HTPC and a main PC. There is a dell that I was thinking about buying for 450 and upgrading the video card so that I can have dual outputs (tv and monitor on at the same time playing different content), what type of video card would I need?
Here are the specs. Would this work?


Intel® Core™2 Quad processor Q8200 (4MB L2, 2.33GHz, 1333FSB)
4GB Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 800MHz- 4DIMMs
500GB Serial ATA Hard Drive (7200RPM) w/DataBurst Cache™
16X DVD+/-RW Drive
Integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3100
Integrated 7.1 Channel Audio

Thanks!!

So...

Foregoing the Seagate drives which is very odd for me (though the WD drives seem to be rated much higher at The Egg)...

Should I get one of the WD Caviar Black drives with the 32mb cache? They're on sale for the same price as the 16mb cache drives currently and I'm getting ready to order.

Also, since I'm asking, how much of a hit would I take if I decide to put an additional drive in the case at a later date? Not sure if that will happen but I'm thinking about it.

I am thinking of starting with a smaller version of the 15TB Media Server spec'd on page 85. I haven't even decided if this set up will work for me, so I thought I'd ease into it.

I see that there is a killer deal on an entry level Dell server right now: Dell SB Poweredge T100: Intel Pentium E2220 2.4GHz, 2GB DDR2, *TWO* (2) 250GB HDDs, 16x DVD Drive, 3 PCIe slots, Gig Ethernet, No OS for $269 plus shipping.

Any chance this will work? I'll probably replace the HDDs with a pair of 1.5TB Caviar Green disks.

Hello!

I came across an older 2006 Dell 5150/E510. I'm wondering, with a few updates, if this will be an acceptable HTPC for HD playback with Windows 7 (64 or 32, not really sure which). I searched this thread for the model, and back in July 08 it was mentioned that this could be used for DVD playback, but wanted to double check for HD content with Windows 7.

Here is the processor: Processor, 80551, Pentium D Smithfield, 820 2.8, BO, Server. It's a 2.8ghz i believe. I'm not sure what the cache is, but it's either 1MG or 2MG.

It has 1G ram, either 400-MHz or 533-MHz DDR2 unbuffered SDRAM. I'm not sure which. I will upgrade this to atleast 2g, maybe even 4. Per Dell the MB can support 4Gig non-ecc ram.

Right now it has the 945g Intel chipset, but it has PCI 2.3 PCI Express x1 and x16. I think with a decent card, the graphics should handle nicely (I hope..never know with Dell and I'm not too familiar with Dell either). It's only a 305W power supply, but I have a 420W ATX 12V available.


What do you guys think? Do you think it can handle 1080p playback if I beef it up? Should I steer clear of Dell and just use this as a work machine?

Here is a link to Dell where they list the product specs: http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim5150/en/sm/specs1.htm#wp1052310

Thanks in advance! You guys are really on top of your stuff over here.

No concerns with the WD 1TB drive?
In the long term, you'd better separate the OS drive from data storage drives.

Dell Poweredge T100
* Dual Core Intel Pentium E2220, 2.4GHz, 1MB Cache, 800MHz FSB
* 2GB, DDR2, 800MHz, 1x2GB,Dual Ranked DIMMs
* Hard Drive #1: 250GB 7.2K RPM Serial ATA 3Gbps 3.5-in Cabled Hard Drive
* Hard Drive #2: 250GB 7.2K RPM Serial ATA 3Gbps 3.5-in Cabled Hard Drive
* On-Board Single Gigabit Network Adapter
* 16x DVD Drive, Internal
* On-Board Single Gigabit Network Adapter
* No Operating System

$269

The only thing that has me worried is that it looks like it'll only hold 2 HDDs and a max of 2TB of internal storage. Is there anything else that I worry about as an entry level media server? I'll just slap in the 2250 cards, load W7, and go...

No, it is an older unit RCA Professional Series STAV 4180. It has SPDIF optical and coaxial for audio. That might be were my problems lies. Do you recommend any decently price AVR?

Also, I changed the BIOS from spdif to HDMI audio. to see if I could get it to take through the TV's HDMI and no luck.

It shows on the sound display.
Realtek HMDI Output
Realtek High Definition Audio (current Realtek driver 2.23)
(checked) default device

Nvidia HMDI Output
Nvidia HDMI Audio
Not plugged in

I am not sure if that is referring to the HDMI on the Mobo or the DVI to HDMI adapter on the VGA.

Should I be able to get video and audio through the VGA via the DVI to HDMI adapter? This HTPC is all new to me, so please excuse me for all the questions.
Connecting the optical connector of the rear panel to the receiver is the correct way. You can choose either 'SPDIF Output' or 'HDMI Output' in BIOS. But 'HDMI Output' is intended for internal S/PDIF connection to a NVIDIA graphics card (and hence you see then device 'Realtek HDMI Output' in the Sound dialog box). Select 'SPDIF Output' in BIOS and select 'Realtek Digital Output (Optical)' in the Sound dialog box. Click the 'Properties' button and click the 'Supported Formats'. Play test sounds. You should hear sounds.

I want a dual HTPC and a main PC. There is a dell that I was thinking about buying for 450 and upgrading the video card so that I can have dual outputs (tv and monitor on at the same time playing different content), what type of video card would I need?
Any graphics card with two outputs works.

I am thinking of starting with a smaller version of the 15TB Media Server spec'd on page 85. I haven't even decided if this set up will work for me, so I thought I'd ease into it.

I see that there is a killer deal on an entry level Dell server right now: Dell SB Poweredge T100: Intel Pentium E2220 2.4GHz, 2GB DDR2, *TWO* (2) 250GB HDDs, 16x DVD Drive, 3 PCIe slots, Gig Ethernet, No OS for $269 plus shipping.

Any chance this will work? I'll probably replace the HDDs with a pair of 1.5TB Caviar Green disks.
Do you really need a server only for 2 HDD (3TB) storage space? If you are going to add storage controller card(s) and enxternal enclosure(s), then this may be a good choice.

Hello!

I came across an older 2006 Dell 5150/E510. I'm wondering, with a few updates, if this will be an acceptable HTPC for HD playback with Windows 7 (64 or 32, not really sure which). I searched this thread for the model, and back in July 08 it was mentioned that this could be used for DVD playback, but wanted to double check for HD content with Windows 7.

Here is the processor: Processor, 80551, Pentium D Smithfield, 820 2.8, BO, Server. It's a 2.8ghz i believe. I'm not sure what the cache is, but it's either 1MG or 2MG.

It has 1G ram, either 400-MHz or 533-MHz DDR2 unbuffered SDRAM. I'm not sure which. I will upgrade this to atleast 2g, maybe even 4. Per Dell the MB can support 4Gig non-ecc ram.

Right now it has the 945g Intel chipset, but it has PCI 2.3 PCI Express x1 and x16. I think with a decent card, the graphics should handle nicely (I hope..never know with Dell and I'm not too familiar with Dell either). It's only a 305W power supply, but I have a 420W ATX 12V available.


What do you guys think? Do you think it can handle 1080p playback if I beef it up? Should I steer clear of Dell and just use this as a work machine?

Here is a link to Dell where they list the product specs: http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim5150/en/sm/specs1.htm#wp1052310

Thanks in advance! You guys are really on top of your stuff over here.
Add a good graphics card and 1GB RAM, and the system should be good for HD contents.

In the long term, you'd better separate the OS drive from data storage drives.

Thanks! The long term plan is to build a media server, but that's probably a year off. I can get the 1TB drive for $80, so this'll let me save up for a server.

Dell Poweredge T100
* Dual Core Intel Pentium E2220, 2.4GHz, 1MB Cache, 800MHz FSB
* 2GB, DDR2, 800MHz, 1x2GB,Dual Ranked DIMMs
* Hard Drive #1: 250GB 7.2K RPM Serial ATA 3Gbps 3.5-in Cabled Hard Drive
* Hard Drive #2: 250GB 7.2K RPM Serial ATA 3Gbps 3.5-in Cabled Hard Drive
* On-Board Single Gigabit Network Adapter
* 16x DVD Drive, Internal
* On-Board Single Gigabit Network Adapter
* No Operating System

$269

The only thing that has me worried is that it looks like it'll only hold 2 HDDs and a max of 2TB of internal storage. Is there anything else that I worry about as an entry level media server? I'll just slap in the 2250 cards, load W7, and go...

Are you looking to do a media server and an HTPC, or combine the two? If you are looking for a dedicated media server strictly to handle streaming media separate from the HTPC then the HP Media Smart Server is a good choice (I have the EX470 with 4 x 1TB drives and an ESata Port Multiplier with an additional 4 x 1TB). I will probably start upgrading the drives to 1.5TB and 2TB drives soon.

Are you looking to do a media server and an HTPC, or combine the two? If you are looking for a dedicated media server strictly to handle streaming media separate from the HTPC then the HP Media Smart Server is a good choice (I have the EX470 with 4 x 1TB drives and an ESata Port Multiplier with an additional 4 x 1TB). I will probably start upgrading the drives to 1.5TB and 2TB drives soon.

I'm looking to stream my Time Warner SD/HDTV and have a whole-home DVR. I'd also like to be able to stream mp3s and watch ripped DVDs. Hulu and Netflix streaming would be nice as well. Haven't looked a Media Smart Servers either...jeez, you're full of ideas. :)

Add a good graphics card and 1GB RAM, and the system should be good for HD contents.

Thanks Rene.

I'm looking at this 512mg 4670: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102820

PCI Express 2.0 x16. I believe my system can handle the card.

Do you think my 305W PS can handle this, or does that need to be upgraded as well?

Do you think my 305W PS can handle this, or does that need to be upgraded as well?
305W is enough.

I am a newbie at custom build PCs. I am looking to build an HTPC that would replace my HD Dvr box and in addition can be used for downloading,streaming (slingbox like) and other desktop like functions using remote access.

Based on the recommendation I have come up with following config. Couple of my concerns are

1. It will be powered on all the time. - So I want to make sure power consumption is less.

2. I want it to last for a while hence thinking of quad instead of dual core.

3. I want to use it for remote access (as it will be connected to TV all the time) and for remote streaming of TV - like slingbox.

4. Not very loud

CONFIGURATION

The processor choice I have are... - They are all in similar price range

Intel Q8400 Quad core or Intel E8500 dual core or AMD Phenom II X4 940 BE

Intel E8500 dual core has great review and SYSMARK rating, but the Q8400 is quad core & is better for multitasking (as I plan to run background tasks - downloading & streaming - while watching TV channels) The AMD CPU has 125W rating while the Intel Dual core has 65W and quad core is 95W - does this affect power consumption much. Please let me know ur recommendation..

PSU I have chosen is Enermax Modu82+ 525W - $85 at newegg - energy efficient and quiet ? Thought modular helps having less to incr air flow.

Case is SILVERSTONE Black Aluminum front panel, 0.8 mm SECC body GD01B-MXR ATX Media Center / HTPC Case - $170 at newegg - remote and card reader was reason for this choice.

GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P - Will use an old PCI Video card for now - Hoping to buy Radeon HD 4670 later

A-DATA ADQVE1B16K DDR2-800 2 x 2GB Kit

CPU Cooler: Xigmatek HDT-SD964

OS: planning to go with Windows 7 for now ( i have an XP i can use thought Windows 7 would be better) - I guess better to go 32-bit due to driver and software support.

I would really appreciate if you could let me know your comments as I am nervous about it as it is my first venture.

Thanks in advance,
ganb

Anyone think any of the following Fry's anniversary deals might be good for HTPC.

- 79.99 MSI G31M3-LV2 + Intel E5200 79.99
- 99.99 ASUS M3A76-CM + AMD Phenom X3 8650
- Liteon BlueRay Drive $69.99

Pair with HD4770, etc...

I am aiming to complete a system around $200-$250 range.
Idea is simple HTPC that acts as BT downloader too, play YouTube, mkv, etc.

Well, I placed an order, and here's what I picked for my purposes:
Streaming Time Warner SD/HDTV and have a whole-home DVR. Streaming mp3s and watching ripped DVDs. Hulu and Netflix streaming would be nice as well.

Case Cooler Master Centurion 590 Black
PSU Corsair CMPSU-400cx 400w 80+ Certified
CPU AMD Athlon X2 7750
Mobo GIGABYTE GA-MA780G-UD3H
Memory Patriot Viper 4GB 2x2GB DDR2 800
Network Card TrendNet TEG-PCITXR 10/100/1000
Primary HDD Western Digital 640GB WD6400AAKS
HD Capture Card Hauppauge HVR-2250
Storage HDDs (2) Western Digital Caviar GREEN WD10EADS 1TB
OS Windows 7 RC
Switch TrendNet TEG-S50G 10/100/1000 GREENnet

It will initially be a 2.65TB Server capable of displaying different channels of live TV on 2 TVs, streaming ripped MP3s, DVDs, Blu-Ray, and a whole-home DVR. The drives, power supply, and switch could have been a bit cheaper, but I opted for those rated for very low power consumption. Everything is also gigabit capable.

The system should be easily expandable. Another $113 gets you another two feeds of live TV and increasing drive space is a matter of dropping another $88 to get 1TB. The case will hold 15 hard drives with the addition of some cages and SATA controller(s).

Anyone think any of the following Fry's anniversary deals might be good for HTPC.

- 79.99 MSI G31M3-LV2 + Intel E5200 79.99
- 99.99 ASUS M3A76-CM + AMD Phenom X3 8650
- Liteon BlueRay Drive $69.99

Pair with HD4770, etc...

I am aiming to complete a system around $200-$250 range.
Idea is simple HTPC that acts as BT downloader too, play YouTube, mkv, etc.

Neither, E5200 bundle has crappy MB and need to purchase HDMI/DVI card.
Phenom bundle to high a wattage for HTPC.

Get the AMD X2 5050e or 4850e and the ASUS M3A78 or ASUS M3N78-EM instead -even if it cost a bit more.

Well, I placed an order, and here's what I picked for my purposes:
Streaming Time Warner SD/HDTV and have a whole-home DVR. Streaming mp3s and watching ripped DVDs. Hulu and Netflix streaming would be nice as well.

Case Cooler Master Centurion 590 Black
PSU Corsair CMPSU-400cx 400w 80+ Certified
CPU AMD Athlon X2 7750
Mobo GIGABYTE GA-MA780G-UD3H
Memory Patriot Viper 4GB 2x2GB DDR2 800
Network Card TrendNet TEG-PCITXR 10/100/1000
Primary HDD Western Digital 640GB WD6400AAKS
HD Capture Card Hauppauge HVR-2250
Storage HDDs (2) Western Digital Caviar GREEN WD10EADS 1TB
OS Windows 7 RC
Switch TrendNet TEG-S50G 10/100/1000 GREENnet

It will initially be a 2.65TB Server capable of displaying different channels of live TV on 2 TVs, streaming ripped MP3s, DVDs, Blu-Ray, and a whole-home DVR. The drives, power supply, and switch could have been a bit cheaper, but I opted for those rated for very low power consumption. Everything is also gigabit capable.

The system should be easily expandable. Another $113 gets you another two feeds of live TV and increasing drive space is a matter of dropping another $88 to get 1TB. The case will hold 15 hard drives with the addition of some cages and SATA controller(s).

Cool, definitely report back to let everyone know how it goes. I am in the near future going to be replacing my HP MediaSmartServer for a more fully featured Media Server (similar to your build).

Also, just a side note, I have been speaking with a few people about the eventual switch from analog to digital broadcast, and there is the potential that this affects negatively some of the tv tuner cards out there, especially depending on if channels move over to Switched Video.

Has anyone tried out cable tuning adapters on their HTPCs? I stopped by cablevision to inquire about them and they said they will only work with tivos.

Rene, I bought the Case from Newegg. I have everything shown on the picture except for the manual and CD. I printed out the manual from Antecs website and will download the driver once I put it together. Well I'm off to build my HTPC. See you all in a couple of hours with some pics.

pz

Where did you buy the case? A used product? You should have all the accessories seen in these pictures (http://www.newegg.com/Product/ShowImage.aspx?CurImage=11-129-054-12.jpg&Image=11-129-054-03.jpg%2c11-129-054-05.jpg%2c11-129-054-04.jpg%2c11-129-054-09.jpg%2c11-129-054-10.jpg%2c11-129-054-06.jpg%2c11-129-054-07.jpg%2c11-129-054-08.jpg%2c11-129-054-11.jpg%2c11-129-054-12.jpg%2c11-129-054-13.jpg%2c11-129-054-02.jpg&S7ImageFlag=0&WaterMark=1&Item=N82E16811129054&Depa=0&Description=Antec%20Black%20Fusion%20Remote%20Black%20Micro% 20ATX%20Media%20Center%20%2f%20HTPC%20Case).

You can download the manual here (http://www.antec.com/Believe_it/product.php?id=NzE4) and iMEDIAN software here (http://www.antec.com/Believe_it/index.php?page=support_faqDownload).

Has anyone tried out cable tuning adapters on their HTPCs? I stopped by cablevision to inquire about them and they said they will only work with tivos.

That's not accurate...it will work with Tivos and also custom integrators who've been licensed to install them on their PCs.

However the process to enable OCUR (which allows Cable Cards to be used) on any motherboard has been develeoped.

Good info HERE (http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/12/how-to-install-a-cablecard-tuner-in-your-diy-media-center/)

renethx,

Thanks for all the great info. I've been following the thread for awhile and am finally ready to start a low end Intel build. It appears to me that the best IGP for Intel is the Nvidia one.

However, I do want to add a graphics card in a few months to get better post processing. Is there any reason to not pair an ATI card with the Nvidia IGP?

For those looking for the SAPPHIRE 100255DDR4 Radeon HD 4670 512MB 128-bit GDDR4 PCI Express 2.0 x16 it's back in stock at newegg.

Connecting the optical connector of the rear panel to the receiver is the correct way. You can choose either 'SPDIF Output' or 'HDMI Output' in BIOS. But 'HDMI Output' is intended for internal S/PDIF connection to a NVIDIA graphics card (and hence you see then device 'Realtek HDMI Output' in the Sound dialog box). Select 'SPDIF Output' in BIOS and select 'Realtek Digital Output (Optical)' in the Sound dialog box. Click the 'Properties' button and click the 'Supported Formats'. Play test sounds. You should hear sounds.

Thanks for all your help, I appreciate it! I ended up going with new AVR. I think mine was a little too old. Sound is working with the new AVR. I need to figure out which is the best Blue-ray player software. I put the disk that came with the LG BD player, only plays in 2ch mode, it is Ultra PowerDVD.

I just built a new HTPC using Gigabyte MA78GM-US2H with Windows 7 RC 1. I'm having some trouble getting the image to fill the screen on my Panasonic Plasma 58pz800u. The connection is routed thru my Pioneer 1018 receiver. I installed the latest ATI drivers. I'm getting blank space about 2 or 3 inches all around the edges.


Also, how do I get 5.1 DD or DTS to pass thru HDMI audio. I have some blu-ray files with DD 5.1 audio track but using windows media player I can only recieve 2 channel. Most likely a limit of the WMP.

renethx,

Thanks for all the great info. I've been following the thread for awhile and am finally ready to start a low end Intel build. It appears to me that the best IGP for Intel is the Nvidia one.

However, I do want to add a graphics card in a few months to get better post processing. Is there any reason to not pair an ATI card with the Nvidia IGP?
NVIDIA chipset + ATI dGPU is no problem.

I just built a new HTPC using Gigabyte MA78GM-US2H with Windows 7 RC 1. I'm having some trouble getting the image to fill the screen on my Panasonic Plasma 58pz800u. The connection is routed thru my Pioneer 1018 receiver. I installed the latest ATI drivers. I'm getting blank space about 2 or 3 inches all around the edges.


Also, how do I get 5.1 DD or DTS to pass thru HDMI audio. I have some blu-ray files with DD 5.1 audio track but using windows media player I can only recieve 2 channel. Most likely a limit of the WMP.
Have you adjusted 'Scaling Options' in CCC?

Can you hear DD/DTS test sounds in Sound dialog box?

Have you adjusted 'Scaling Options' in CCC?

Can you hear DD/DTS test sounds in Sound dialog box?

No I have not tried that. I guess I just expected it to be pixel for pixel. I will give it a try.

Where is the sound dialog box? Under control panel -> sound or the Realtek settings? I don't see anything related to DD/DTS in either panel?

In the long term, you'd better separate the OS drive from data storage drives.

I am using a 1TB HDD, what size partition do you recommend for the OS?

No I have not tried that. I guess I just expected it to be pixel for pixel. I will give it a try.

Where is the sound dialog box? Under control panel -> sound or the Realtek settings? I don't see anything related to DD/DTS in either panel?

You will see a sound icon in the bottom right of the system tray. Right click that, select Playback devices, select the (checked) default device, select properties, next window tab at top, supported formats, you will see DTS Audio Dolby Digital and MS WMA Pro Audio. I have everything checked but MS WMA, and hit test sound, it should play sound through your AVR.

I think that is what Rene was referring too, but I am not certain.

I am using a 1TB HDD, what size partition do you recommend for the OS?

Don't partition your data harddrive for OS, buy another for your OS to keep your data seperate and safe, 80-120GB should be sufficient.

Also, how do I get 5.1 DD or DTS to pass thru HDMI audio. I have some blu-ray files with DD 5.1 audio track but using windows media player I can only recieve 2 channel. Most likely a limit of the WMP.

I was having the same problem. The solution can be found in the this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1145507) thread that I started.

PDVD7.3 OEM is not good because Dolby TrueHD is always downmixed to stereo. PDVD7.3 Retail is good (although it can't decode DTS-HD Master Audio; it uses the core DTS instead).

In general I recommend waiting for the upcoming SlyPlayer (expected this year) instead of upgrading to PDVD9 (broken HDMI audio right now) or TMT3 (mostly good, but not worth upgrading from TMT2).


Ok, so I finally got around to installing my 4550 today (I know, I'm pretty quick, it's only been 2 months) and I'm running into the stereo-only issue. What is my best option as of today? Has PDVD9 been fixed? Can I still buy 8? All I currently have is PDVD7.3 OEM so I know I have to bite the bullet and buy something.

Thanks,
Jeff

Don't partition your data harddrive for OS, buy another for your OS to keep your data seperate and safe, 80-120GB should be sufficient.

Is the main issue protection of data, or performance? My long term plan is to move everything to a media server, but for now I'd like to save costs and just have a single hdd. I'm not all that concerned about data protection... I have a backup drive for all the stuff that I need to protect. However, if I'm looking at noticeable performance issues as well, then I'll just spring for an extra $35 and buy an 80GB boot drive.

Don't partition your data harddrive for OS, buy another for your OS to keep your data seperate and safe, 80-120GB should be sufficient.

Does performance really suffer by using an older SATA-I drive which is only 150Mbp I believe for the OS? I have 4GB of ram so swapping should be minimum for just HTPC activities.
I just reused and older 160Gb hardrive I had.

Would older 200G IDE drive perform better or worse for OS

No I have not tried that. I guess I just expected it to be pixel for pixel. I will give it a try.

Where is the sound dialog box? Under control panel -> sound or the Realtek settings? I don't see anything related to DD/DTS in either panel?

You are correct. Scaling was set to around 7-8% after reseting to 0% its perfect

Is the main issue protection of data, or performance? My long term plan is to move everything to a media server, but for now I'd like to save costs and just have a single hdd. I'm not all that concerned about data protection... I have a backup drive for all the stuff that I need to protect. However, if I'm looking at noticeable performance issues as well, then I'll just spring for an extra $35 and buy an 80GB boot drive.
It's more about convenience than performance. For some applications (e.g. video editing) a separate OS drive is better but this does not apply to a pure HTPC.

Ok, so I finally got around to installing my 4550 today (I know, I'm pretty quick, it's only been 2 months) and I'm running into the stereo-only issue. What is my best option as of today? Has PDVD9 been fixed? Can I still buy 8? All I currently have is PDVD7.3 OEM so I know I have to bite the bullet and buy something.
I still get only Dolby TrueHD 2.0 with PowerDVD 9 Ultra 1531 (the latest patch). TMT3 is a better choice right now.

@ renethx

Is there anyway to attatch either of your two recc.

Rosewill RSV-S8

High Per. 8 drive

to a router , for network access?

@ renethx

Is there anyway to attatch either of your two recc.

Rosewill RSV-S8

High Per. 8 drive

to a router , for network access?
No, you have to attach them to a PC.

Ok. I was wondering if I could upgrade an old desktop to turn into a HTPC:

Here are specs:

originally an Aptiva 8427-21u

Pentium 4 530 (chip specs below):

sSpec Number: SL7J6
CPU Speed: 3 GHz
PCG: 04A
Bus Speed: 800 MHz
Bus/Core Ratio: 15
L2 Cache Size: 1 MB
L2 Cache Speed: 3 GHz

Plan to upgrade the ram to 2gig
Plan to upgrade the HD to 1T
Plan to upgrade graphics card
Plan to install Windows 7

Will this even work? Is this old processor just junk? I can do all of the above for roughly $100 (with other spare parts i have around)...so it isn't too expensive to re-build...but I can also get a new machine for pretty cheap ($300 or so) through my wife's work (Lenovo).

Thoughts?

Will this even work? Is this old processor just junk? I can do all of the above for roughly $100 (with other spare parts i have around)...so it isn't too expensive to re-build...but I can also get a new machine for pretty cheap ($300 or so) through my wife's work (Lenovo).

Thoughts?
Should work. I recommend you to buy a good graphics card (such as Sapphire HD 4670 GDDR4), install Win7 in a spare HDD and see if the performance is good enough (play a couple of SD and HD contents) before proceeding further.

No, you have to attach them to a PC.

Is a home media server basically the only answer,
for network access.

Hi all,
I have a HTPC with the following components:
ASUS M3N78-EM mother board
AMD X2 BE-2400 (OCed 10%)
LG BD/HDDVD combo drive

HTPC is connected to Pioneer KURO 6020FD.

I used my HTPC for watching blurays and NetFlix instant watch ONLY. I don't play games.
Currently, I am using the integrated ATI 3200 on the ASUS board. My question is if I buy a good video card, will I see any improvement in picture quality?

Is a home media server basically the only answer,
for network access.
Yes.

Hi all,
I have a HTPC with the following components:
ASUS M3N78-EM mother board
AMD X2 BE-2400 (OCed 10%)
LG BD/HDDVD combo drive

HTPC is connected to Pioneer KURO 6020FD.

I used my HTPC for watching blurays and NetFlix instant watch ONLY. I don't play games.
Currently, I am using the integrated ATI 3200 on the ASUS board. My question is if I buy a good video card, will I see any improvement in picture quality?
Yes. (M3N78-EM is GeForce 8300, M3A78-EM is HD 3200. Typo?)